1. In your Journal: Let’s talk about the tree.
Using the RACER strategy, answer this question:
How did Bryce and Juli view the tree? Did they have different views about the tree? Explain!

2. EGGS!!!
“It didn’t feel right to lie, but I didn’t want to hurt her feelings.”
Bryce made this comment about Juli and the eggs.
Using the RACER strategy, answer these questions:
How did Juli’s and Bryce’s perspective differ on the subject of the eggs? Explain how Juli came to be the owner of chickens. Have you ever been in a situation similar to the situation that Bryce was in?

3. The Yard What type of figurative language is this statement?
“I traded in an old set of problems for new ones.”
What did Bryce mean by this?
Bryce’s grandfather “developed a soft spot” for Juli. What does this mean?
The definition of iridescent is “displaying lustrous colors.”
What did Bryce’s grandfather mean when he said this about Juli, “Some are dipped in flat, some are dipped in satin, some are dipped in gloss, only are few are iridescent.”

4. Family dinners… In your journal:
Contrast the family dinner scenes. Using RACER - How are the Loski family dinners different from the Baker family dinners. What does the Loski family have that the Baker family doesn’t have. What does the Baker family have that that Loski family doesn’t have?
We are looking for a “theme.”

5. The yard continued…
Now that you have seen the scene with Juli’s perspective on the yard. What are your thoughts on Bryce’s grandfather helping Juli? Does Juli’s presence bring Bryce and his granfather closer or push them apart?
The SUM of our PARTS:
What does this mean?

6. FLIP! Why does Bryce’s mom want to have a dinner party?
What is going on with Bryce and his feelings for Julie?
Bryce said, “My life has become a minefield.”
What type of figurative language is this statement? What does it mean?

7. Uncle Daniel
Tell us how you felt when Juli met her Uncle Daniel. Do you think it was good for her to meet him? Explain
Juli has FLIPPED!
Explain how and why!

8. Meet the parents… Describe the dinner party.
What do you think of Juli’s honesty?
Why do you think Mr. Loski became quiet during the dinner?

9. No flutters… Basket Boys! “Beefcake” Why did Juli bid on Eddie?
Do you feel sorry for Bryce?
What type of figure language is this statement?
“He sent my head spinning.”
Using RACER:
Why did Bryce plant the tree?