Podcast
Questions and Answers
Who is Miss Saunders and how is she described by the narrator?
Who is Miss Saunders and how is she described by the narrator?
Miss Saunders is a new teacher at the narrator's school. She is described as tall, fat, with small feet, and a giant white stain spread halfway across her face.
How does the narrator feel about Miss Saunders and why?
How does the narrator feel about Miss Saunders and why?
The narrator feels a bad feeling about Miss Saunders and thinks she is somebody to stay clear of. The narrator believes that Miss Saunders is a freak like him and worries that the teasing he faces will be worse for her as a new teacher.
What is the narrator's initial reaction when Miss Saunders approaches him?
What is the narrator's initial reaction when Miss Saunders approaches him?
The narrator tries not to stare and doesn't look up when Miss Saunders comes up to him, treating her like an information center.
How does the narrator feel about attracting strange characters and what is his attitude towards fitting in at school?
How does the narrator feel about attracting strange characters and what is his attitude towards fitting in at school?
Who is Miss Saunders and what confrontation does she have with Charlese?
Who is Miss Saunders and what confrontation does she have with Charlese?
What financial struggles do Charlese and Juju face?
What financial struggles do Charlese and Juju face?
Who interrupts Miss Saunders during her confrontation with Charlese?
Who interrupts Miss Saunders during her confrontation with Charlese?
What do the girls do every morning in the bathroom?
What do the girls do every morning in the bathroom?
What change occurred in Maleeka's behavior after hanging out with Caleb?
What change occurred in Maleeka's behavior after hanging out with Caleb?
What did Charlese and her friends do to bully Maleeka?
What did Charlese and her friends do to bully Maleeka?
What kind of comments did Charlese and her friends make about Miss Saunders?
What kind of comments did Charlese and her friends make about Miss Saunders?
What does Charlese provide Maleeka with every morning?
What does Charlese provide Maleeka with every morning?
Who is Caleb and how does he impact Maleeka's life?
Who is Caleb and how does he impact Maleeka's life?
What is the main focus of the girls' discussions in the bathroom?
What is the main focus of the girls' discussions in the bathroom?
What is the motivation Miss Saunders reveals for teaching at the school?
What is the motivation Miss Saunders reveals for teaching at the school?
What rude comment does Charlese make about Miss Saunders?
What rude comment does Charlese make about Miss Saunders?
Who bullies Maleeka Madison for her dark skin?
Who bullies Maleeka Madison for her dark skin?
What boosts Maleeka's confidence at school?
What boosts Maleeka's confidence at school?
How does Charlese later humiliate Maleeka?
How does Charlese later humiliate Maleeka?
What does Maleeka vow to do after facing ridicule?
What does Maleeka vow to do after facing ridicule?
Who does Miss Saunders confront for misbehaving in the hallway?
Who does Miss Saunders confront for misbehaving in the hallway?
How does Charlese react to Miss Saunders' confrontation?
How does Charlese react to Miss Saunders' confrontation?
What does Worm try to do during Miss Saunders' confrontation with Charlese?
What does Worm try to do during Miss Saunders' confrontation with Charlese?
What is highlighted about Charlese's nature during the confrontation with Miss Saunders?
What is highlighted about Charlese's nature during the confrontation with Miss Saunders?
Who may complicate Maleeka's challenging situation at school with a tough approach?
Who may complicate Maleeka's challenging situation at school with a tough approach?
What does Maleeka encounter when she meets Miss Saunders and John-John McIntyre?
What does Maleeka encounter when she meets Miss Saunders and John-John McIntyre?
What kind of ridicule does Maleeka face at school?
What kind of ridicule does Maleeka face at school?
What decision does Maleeka make after facing ridicule?
What decision does Maleeka make after facing ridicule?
What motivates Char to protect Maleeka from bullies?
What motivates Char to protect Maleeka from bullies?
How does Maleeka feel about the help she receives from Char?
How does Maleeka feel about the help she receives from Char?
What prompts Maleeka to face public humiliation in class?
What prompts Maleeka to face public humiliation in class?
How does Malcolm humorously describe the message his face conveys?
How does Malcolm humorously describe the message his face conveys?
What message does John-John believe his face conveys?
What message does John-John believe his face conveys?
What prompts the students to express curiosity and empathy towards Miss Saunders's story?
What prompts the students to express curiosity and empathy towards Miss Saunders's story?
What does Miss Saunders emphasize the importance of to the students?
What does Miss Saunders emphasize the importance of to the students?
What themes are delved into in the chapter?
What themes are delved into in the chapter?
Where does Maleeka experience severe bullying?
Where does Maleeka experience severe bullying?
What does Maleeka exchange with Char in return for protection from bullies?
What does Maleeka exchange with Char in return for protection from bullies?
Who challenges the students to express what their faces communicate?
Who challenges the students to express what their faces communicate?
What does Miss Saunders's openness prompt the students to do?
What does Miss Saunders's openness prompt the students to do?
What does Miss Saunders encourage in her class and what does she share with her students?
What does Miss Saunders encourage in her class and what does she share with her students?
What kind of test does Miss Saunders initiate in her class and what is its impact on the students' grades?
What kind of test does Miss Saunders initiate in her class and what is its impact on the students' grades?
What event leads to the protagonist going shopping with Momma, and what does she buy with the money she receives?
What event leads to the protagonist going shopping with Momma, and what does she buy with the money she receives?
What is the reaction of Charlese upon seeing the protagonist's new look at school?
What is the reaction of Charlese upon seeing the protagonist's new look at school?
How does Charlese attempt to manipulate the pairing of students for an assignment, and who thwarts this attempt?
How does Charlese attempt to manipulate the pairing of students for an assignment, and who thwarts this attempt?
Which student in Miss Saunders's class is struggling with reading and is set to receive tutoring from Miss Saunders?
Which student in Miss Saunders's class is struggling with reading and is set to receive tutoring from Miss Saunders?
What does Miss Saunders assign the class to write, and what is the purpose of this assignment?
What does Miss Saunders assign the class to write, and what is the purpose of this assignment?
Who questions Miss Saunders's assignment, and how does Miss Saunders explain its purpose?
Who questions Miss Saunders's assignment, and how does Miss Saunders explain its purpose?
How does the protagonist initially react to Desda's enthusiasm for Miss Saunders's assignment?
How does the protagonist initially react to Desda's enthusiasm for Miss Saunders's assignment?
What does the chapter provide insight into, regarding the protagonist, and what is highlighted about Miss Saunders's teaching approach and the students' reactions?
What does the chapter provide insight into, regarding the protagonist, and what is highlighted about Miss Saunders's teaching approach and the students' reactions?
What glimpse does the text offer about the protagonist's changing relationships, and who has an impact on her life?
What glimpse does the text offer about the protagonist's changing relationships, and who has an impact on her life?
What job has Maleeka been assigned by the principal and her mother, and how does she feel about it?
What job has Maleeka been assigned by the principal and her mother, and how does she feel about it?
What does Maleeka overhear during the conversation between Miss Saunders and her mother, and what is Miss Saunders's opinion about Maleeka's potential?
What does Maleeka overhear during the conversation between Miss Saunders and her mother, and what is Miss Saunders's opinion about Maleeka's potential?
How does Maleeka feel about Miss Saunders and what does she try to tell her mother about Miss Saunders's teaching abilities?
How does Maleeka feel about Miss Saunders and what does she try to tell her mother about Miss Saunders's teaching abilities?
What punishment has Maleeka received due to a fight, and who came up with the idea for this punishment?
What punishment has Maleeka received due to a fight, and who came up with the idea for this punishment?
What positive attention does Maleeka initially receive after getting a new haircut, and how does this contrast with the reactions she faces at school?
What positive attention does Maleeka initially receive after getting a new haircut, and how does this contrast with the reactions she faces at school?
What causes Maleeka to be frequently late for school, and how does this impact her?
What causes Maleeka to be frequently late for school, and how does this impact her?
How does Maleeka handle her dissatisfaction with her mother's homemade clothing?
How does Maleeka handle her dissatisfaction with her mother's homemade clothing?
What financial situation does Maleeka's mother hope for through stock market investments, and what challenges do they face in reality?
What financial situation does Maleeka's mother hope for through stock market investments, and what challenges do they face in reality?
What advice does Maleeka recall from her father, and how does this help her regain composure?
What advice does Maleeka recall from her father, and how does this help her regain composure?
What are some of the challenges Maleeka faces in her school life?
What are some of the challenges Maleeka faces in her school life?
How does Maleeka's self-perception and emotional state change throughout the described experiences?
How does Maleeka's self-perception and emotional state change throughout the described experiences?
What impact does Maleeka's mother's financial hopes and reality have on their family life?
What impact does Maleeka's mother's financial hopes and reality have on their family life?
How does Maleeka's experience at the beauty supply store differ from her experiences at school?
How does Maleeka's experience at the beauty supply store differ from her experiences at school?
How does Maleeka's father's advice influence her emotional state?
How does Maleeka's father's advice influence her emotional state?
What role does the unreliable alarm clock play in Maleeka's school life?
What role does the unreliable alarm clock play in Maleeka's school life?
How does Maleeka handle her feelings about her mother's homemade clothing?
How does Maleeka handle her feelings about her mother's homemade clothing?
What is the setting of the story?
What is the setting of the story?
What challenges does the narrator face in the story?
What challenges does the narrator face in the story?
Who is Charlese and what confrontation does she have at school?
Who is Charlese and what confrontation does she have at school?
What themes are highlighted in the story?
What themes are highlighted in the story?
What does the narrator's mother do after losing all their money?
What does the narrator's mother do after losing all their money?
How does the narrator's mother handle her financial situation?
How does the narrator's mother handle her financial situation?
What insight does the story provide?
What insight does the story provide?
What is the narrator's attitude towards the lunch situation involving Charlese?
What is the narrator's attitude towards the lunch situation involving Charlese?
What is the narrator's reaction after Charlese dismisses her?
What is the narrator's reaction after Charlese dismisses her?
What is revealed about the narrator's mother's behavior with salad oil?
What is revealed about the narrator's mother's behavior with salad oil?
What is the perspective of the story?
What is the perspective of the story?
How is the narrator's mother perceived by others?
How is the narrator's mother perceived by others?
- What was Maleeka's motivation for cutting her hair short?
- What was Maleeka's motivation for cutting her hair short?
- Who helped Maleeka find a hairdresser, and what was the arrangement for the haircut?
- Who helped Maleeka find a hairdresser, and what was the arrangement for the haircut?
- How did Maleeka feel about her new hairstyle, and what did Ronnie emphasize to her?
- How did Maleeka feel about her new hairstyle, and what did Ronnie emphasize to her?
- How did Maleeka's transformation symbolize her desire?
- How did Maleeka's transformation symbolize her desire?
- What does Maleeka's decision to change her appearance reflect?
- What does Maleeka's decision to change her appearance reflect?
- What impact did Maleeka's new look have on her confidence?
- What impact did Maleeka's new look have on her confidence?
- What does Maleeka's transformation highlight?
- What does Maleeka's transformation highlight?
- Who was Ronnie, and what did she do to Maleeka's hair?
- Who was Ronnie, and what did she do to Maleeka's hair?
- What were the reasons for Maleeka's self-consciousness about her appearance?
- What were the reasons for Maleeka's self-consciousness about her appearance?
- How did Sweets assist Maleeka in her hair transformation?
- How did Sweets assist Maleeka in her hair transformation?
- What did Maleeka keep a secret about her haircut?
- What did Maleeka keep a secret about her haircut?
- What did Maleeka seek to gain through her new look?
- What did Maleeka seek to gain through her new look?
What does Maleeka overhear teachers complaining about regarding Miss Saunders' methods and the program she is implementing?
What does Maleeka overhear teachers complaining about regarding Miss Saunders' methods and the program she is implementing?
Who catches Maleeka eavesdropping and reprimands her for not focusing on her work?
Who catches Maleeka eavesdropping and reprimands her for not focusing on her work?
Why is Maleeka's best friend, Sweets, at her house and what does she do while there?
Why is Maleeka's best friend, Sweets, at her house and what does she do while there?
What does Maleeka describe the girls at the prestigious school as, and how does she feel around them?
What does Maleeka describe the girls at the prestigious school as, and how does she feel around them?
What does Sweets reassure Maleeka about regarding skin color?
What does Sweets reassure Maleeka about regarding skin color?
What does Maleeka's mother only allow her to do at home, and why?
What does Maleeka's mother only allow her to do at home, and why?
What does Mr. Pajolli try to do to encourage Maleeka, and what is Maleeka determined to do despite this encouragement?
What does Mr. Pajolli try to do to encourage Maleeka, and what is Maleeka determined to do despite this encouragement?
What is Maleeka reluctant to do at school, and what does she plan to find out more about?
What is Maleeka reluctant to do at school, and what does she plan to find out more about?
Who does Maleeka try to get information about Miss Saunders from, and how does this attempt go?
Who does Maleeka try to get information about Miss Saunders from, and how does this attempt go?
What does Maleeka's mother appreciate about Miss Saunders, and what does she wonder about her?
What does Maleeka's mother appreciate about Miss Saunders, and what does she wonder about her?
What is Maleeka's reaction to agreeing to work in the office, and what does she plan to do as a result?
What is Maleeka's reaction to agreeing to work in the office, and what does she plan to do as a result?
What is Maleeka caught doing by Mr. Mac, and how does he respond to this?
What is Maleeka caught doing by Mr. Mac, and how does he respond to this?
Discuss the power dynamics and control Charlese exerts over Maleeka. How does Charlese use coercion and manipulation to maintain her dominance over Maleeka?
Discuss the power dynamics and control Charlese exerts over Maleeka. How does Charlese use coercion and manipulation to maintain her dominance over Maleeka?
Examine the impact of literature on Maleeka's decision-making. How does the book 'Life of a Slave Girl' influence her thoughts and actions regarding attending class?
Examine the impact of literature on Maleeka's decision-making. How does the book 'Life of a Slave Girl' influence her thoughts and actions regarding attending class?
Analyze the internal conflict faced by Maleeka regarding attending class. How does her internal struggle reflect her desires and sense of duty?
Analyze the internal conflict faced by Maleeka regarding attending class. How does her internal struggle reflect her desires and sense of duty?
Evaluate the themes of resilience and determination in Maleeka's character. How does her resilience manifest in her actions and choices despite the challenges she faces?
Evaluate the themes of resilience and determination in Maleeka's character. How does her resilience manifest in her actions and choices despite the challenges she faces?
What is the conflict between Maleeka and John-John?
What is the conflict between Maleeka and John-John?
How does Maleeka confront John-John about his hatred towards her?
How does Maleeka confront John-John about his hatred towards her?
What struggles does Maleeka reveal to John-John?
What struggles does Maleeka reveal to John-John?
What does John-John mock Maleeka about?
What does John-John mock Maleeka about?
What does Maleeka realize about John-John's feelings towards her?
What does Maleeka realize about John-John's feelings towards her?
How does Miss Saunders's behavior contribute to the frustration among the students?
How does Miss Saunders's behavior contribute to the frustration among the students?
Why do Maleeka and other students pretend to have read the assigned material?
Why do Maleeka and other students pretend to have read the assigned material?
What does Maleeka struggle with in the context of school and social dynamics?
What does Maleeka struggle with in the context of school and social dynamics?
Who challenges authority and flirts with Mr. Pajolli in the school office?
Who challenges authority and flirts with Mr. Pajolli in the school office?
What does Mr. Pajolli suggest about Charlese's math teacher, Tai?
What does Mr. Pajolli suggest about Charlese's math teacher, Tai?
Who encourages Maleeka to maintain her academic performance despite her new office responsibilities?
Who encourages Maleeka to maintain her academic performance despite her new office responsibilities?
What does Maleeka secretly write in her diary, expressing determination and resilience?
What does Maleeka secretly write in her diary, expressing determination and resilience?
What does the narrative provide insight into?
What does the narrative provide insight into?
What is the text an excerpt from?
What is the text an excerpt from?
What does Maleeka avoid doing at home to work on her homework and visit Charlese?
What does Maleeka avoid doing at home to work on her homework and visit Charlese?
Who influences Charlese's freedom and behavior?
Who influences Charlese's freedom and behavior?
What does the disruptive student challenge?
What does the disruptive student challenge?
Who seeks assistance from Maleeka in the school office?
Who seeks assistance from Maleeka in the school office?
What does Miss Carol inform Mr. Pajolli about regarding parent complaints?
What does Miss Carol inform Mr. Pajolli about regarding parent complaints?
What prompts Charlese to leave for class?
What prompts Charlese to leave for class?
What incident causes tension in the classroom?
What incident causes tension in the classroom?
What topic emerges during the discussion of Romeo and Juliet?
What topic emerges during the discussion of Romeo and Juliet?
Who expresses the importance of self-love and care, sparking a debate?
Who expresses the importance of self-love and care, sparking a debate?
Who engages in a heated exchange, drawing attention away from the lesson?
Who engages in a heated exchange, drawing attention away from the lesson?
What personal story does Desda share during the discussion?
What personal story does Desda share during the discussion?
What becomes contentious during the discussion?
What becomes contentious during the discussion?
What shifts the class dynamics during the discussion?
What shifts the class dynamics during the discussion?
What attempts to refocus the discussion on Romeo and Juliet?
What attempts to refocus the discussion on Romeo and Juliet?
What disrupts the lesson despite Miss Saunders' attempts to refocus the discussion?
What disrupts the lesson despite Miss Saunders' attempts to refocus the discussion?
What elicits mixed reactions from the class during the discussion?
What elicits mixed reactions from the class during the discussion?
What becomes emotionally charged during the classroom discussion?
What becomes emotionally charged during the classroom discussion?
What does the dialogue highlight within the classroom dynamic?
What does the dialogue highlight within the classroom dynamic?
What financial situation has the protagonist and her mother been in since the father's death?
What financial situation has the protagonist and her mother been in since the father's death?
What is the protagonist struggling with at school and in her friendship with Char?
What is the protagonist struggling with at school and in her friendship with Char?
What is the protagonist's initial reaction to working in the school office?
What is the protagonist's initial reaction to working in the school office?
Who does the protagonist encounter in the hallway at school?
Who does the protagonist encounter in the hallway at school?
What does Miss Saunders express about her previous career and decision to transition to teaching?
What does Miss Saunders express about her previous career and decision to transition to teaching?
How do most teachers at the school feel about Miss Saunders?
How do most teachers at the school feel about Miss Saunders?
What has Miss Saunders' presence at the school caused among the staff?
What has Miss Saunders' presence at the school caused among the staff?
What does the protagonist question Miss Saunders about?
What does the protagonist question Miss Saunders about?
What does Miss Saunders affirm about her commitment to teaching?
What does Miss Saunders affirm about her commitment to teaching?
How are the teachers at the school stirred up by Miss Saunders?
How are the teachers at the school stirred up by Miss Saunders?
Who seems to be the only teacher at the school who likes Miss Saunders?
Who seems to be the only teacher at the school who likes Miss Saunders?
What does Miss Saunders open up about to the protagonist?
What does Miss Saunders open up about to the protagonist?
What does Char ask the protagonist, and what response does the protagonist want to give but doesn't?
What does Char ask the protagonist, and what response does the protagonist want to give but doesn't?
How does Char react to Worm's attempt to put his arm around her, and what does this reveal about Char's behavior?
How does Char react to Worm's attempt to put his arm around her, and what does this reveal about Char's behavior?
What does the protagonist put out of her head when entering the bathroom, and what is the atmosphere like in the bathroom?
What does the protagonist put out of her head when entering the bathroom, and what is the atmosphere like in the bathroom?
What does the protagonist find herself doing in the bathroom, and how does she respond when Char asks what she's up to?
What does the protagonist find herself doing in the bathroom, and how does she respond when Char asks what she's up to?
What does Miss Saunders wear and how is she praised by Maleeka?
What does Miss Saunders wear and how is she praised by Maleeka?
What does Miss Saunders ask Maleeka about their conversation with Tai?
What does Miss Saunders ask Maleeka about their conversation with Tai?
What personal items does Miss Saunders not have on her desk?
What personal items does Miss Saunders not have on her desk?
What contest does Maleeka enter at the library and what does she rewrite for it?
What contest does Maleeka enter at the library and what does she rewrite for it?
What does Maleeka's mother praise her for and what does she suggest may be in her closet?
What does Maleeka's mother praise her for and what does she suggest may be in her closet?
How does the text illustrate the unfair treatment Maleeka experiences from her peers and authority figures at school?
How does the text illustrate the unfair treatment Maleeka experiences from her peers and authority figures at school?
What does the setting of the detention room and Akeelma's longing for the sun symbolize in the text?
What does the setting of the detention room and Akeelma's longing for the sun symbolize in the text?
How is the oppressive and unjust environment depicted in the text?
How is the oppressive and unjust environment depicted in the text?
What is the significance of Caleb entering the detention room and sitting near Maleeka?
What is the significance of Caleb entering the detention room and sitting near Maleeka?
How does Akeelma's diary entry reveal the conditions of the detention room and Maleeka's emotions?
How does Akeelma's diary entry reveal the conditions of the detention room and Maleeka's emotions?
What do Miss Saunders's actions towards Maleeka in the office reveal about the school's authority figures?
What do Miss Saunders's actions towards Maleeka in the office reveal about the school's authority figures?
How does the text shed light on the challenges faced by Maleeka at school?
How does the text shed light on the challenges faced by Maleeka at school?
What do Char, Raina, and Raise's actions towards Maleeka reveal about the social environment at school?
What do Char, Raina, and Raise's actions towards Maleeka reveal about the social environment at school?
How does the text capture the oppressive treatment Maleeka faces from her peers?
How does the text capture the oppressive treatment Maleeka faces from her peers?
What themes are highlighted in the text through Maleeka's experiences?
What themes are highlighted in the text through Maleeka's experiences?
How does the narrative of the text provide insight into the dynamics of bullying and unfair treatment?
How does the narrative of the text provide insight into the dynamics of bullying and unfair treatment?
What does the text reveal about the toxic social dynamics and oppressive environment within the school?
What does the text reveal about the toxic social dynamics and oppressive environment within the school?
What issues does the story explore?
What issues does the story explore?
Who is involved in community service and volunteering activities?
Who is involved in community service and volunteering activities?
Who separates Maleeka and Caleb in detention?
Who separates Maleeka and Caleb in detention?
From whose perspective is the text written?
From whose perspective is the text written?
Where does Maleeka arrive late to meet Miss Saunders?
Where does Maleeka arrive late to meet Miss Saunders?
What does Maleeka overhear Miss Saunders and another student discussing?
What does Maleeka overhear Miss Saunders and another student discussing?
What chapter of the book is the text from?
What chapter of the book is the text from?
Who claims to have cleaned the boys' bathroom?
Who claims to have cleaned the boys' bathroom?
What does Maleeka feel conflicted about forgiving Caleb for?
What does Maleeka feel conflicted about forgiving Caleb for?
What is Maleeka attracted to Caleb but struggles with?
What is Maleeka attracted to Caleb but struggles with?
Who asks Maleeka to stay after school to discuss her diary?
Who asks Maleeka to stay after school to discuss her diary?
What does Maleeka feel agitated and uncomfortable in at the school?
What does Maleeka feel agitated and uncomfortable in at the school?
Discuss Miss Saunders' approach to maintaining standards and her belief in the students' future gratitude.
Discuss Miss Saunders' approach to maintaining standards and her belief in the students' future gratitude.
How does Tai advise Miss Saunders to handle the students' poor test-taking skills?
How does Tai advise Miss Saunders to handle the students' poor test-taking skills?
What challenges does Miss Saunders acknowledge that she faces?
What challenges does Miss Saunders acknowledge that she faces?
How does Tai respond to Maleeka eavesdropping on their conversation?
How does Tai respond to Maleeka eavesdropping on their conversation?
What pattern does Miss Saunders indicate by asking Maleeka to stay after school?
What pattern does Miss Saunders indicate by asking Maleeka to stay after school?
What does Maleeka refrain from doing after overhearing Miss Saunders and Tai's conversation?
What does Maleeka refrain from doing after overhearing Miss Saunders and Tai's conversation?
How does Tai advise Miss Saunders to avoid letting the need for perfection ruin her?
How does Tai advise Miss Saunders to avoid letting the need for perfection ruin her?
How does Tai express admiration for Miss Saunders' teaching methods?
How does Tai express admiration for Miss Saunders' teaching methods?
What does Miss Saunders express frustration about, and whom does she thank for assistance?
What does Miss Saunders express frustration about, and whom does she thank for assistance?
What discrepancy do Tai and Miss Saunders discuss regarding the students' enthusiasm?
What discrepancy do Tai and Miss Saunders discuss regarding the students' enthusiasm?
How does Miss Saunders react when she catches Maleeka eavesdropping on their conversation?
How does Miss Saunders react when she catches Maleeka eavesdropping on their conversation?
What does Maleeka refrain from sharing with her friend Char after overhearing the conversation?
What does Maleeka refrain from sharing with her friend Char after overhearing the conversation?
What is the protagonist, Maleeka, trying to do when the janitor calls out her name and what happens as she tries to escape?
What is the protagonist, Maleeka, trying to do when the janitor calls out her name and what happens as she tries to escape?
Describe the protagonist's emotional state and the environment as she struggles to unlock her door after the incident at the building.
Describe the protagonist's emotional state and the environment as she struggles to unlock her door after the incident at the building.
What does Miss Jackson do when she notices the protagonist outside her window, and how does the protagonist react?
What does Miss Jackson do when she notices the protagonist outside her window, and how does the protagonist react?
How does the protagonist feel and what does she experience as she tries to find the key to unlock her door?
How does the protagonist feel and what does she experience as she tries to find the key to unlock her door?
What is the protagonist worried about as she sneaks back into her house?
What is the protagonist worried about as she sneaks back into her house?
Who almost reveals the protagonist's secret by calling?
Who almost reveals the protagonist's secret by calling?
What is the consequence of the mom finding out about the incident?
What is the consequence of the mom finding out about the incident?
What does the mom expect the protagonist to do to take responsibility for her actions?
What does the mom expect the protagonist to do to take responsibility for her actions?
Who is the protagonist's friend facing expulsion from school and involved in risky behavior?
Who is the protagonist's friend facing expulsion from school and involved in risky behavior?
What does Charlese’s sister offer to pay her $400 for?
What does Charlese’s sister offer to pay her $400 for?
What dilemma does the protagonist face regarding loyalty and consequences?
What dilemma does the protagonist face regarding loyalty and consequences?
What does Char ask the protagonist, and what response does the protagonist want to give but doesn't?
What does Char ask the protagonist, and what response does the protagonist want to give but doesn't?
What does the protagonist's internal struggle and the lack of help from others highlight?
What does the protagonist's internal struggle and the lack of help from others highlight?
What does the protagonist's actions demonstrate in protecting John-John?
What does the protagonist's actions demonstrate in protecting John-John?
What happens when the protagonist encounters John-John at the store?
What happens when the protagonist encounters John-John at the store?
What happens when a group of boys starts attacking John-John?
What happens when a group of boys starts attacking John-John?
What does the protagonist do when feeling overwhelmed during the fight?
What does the protagonist do when feeling overwhelmed during the fight?
How does the protagonist feel about the police's response to the incident?
How does the protagonist feel about the police's response to the incident?
What ultimately saves the protagonist during the fight?
What ultimately saves the protagonist during the fight?
How does the incident leave the protagonist feeling?
How does the incident leave the protagonist feeling?
What does the protagonist do to cope with the situation?
What does the protagonist do to cope with the situation?
What does the protagonist promise to Char?
What does the protagonist promise to Char?
What does the protagonist feel pressured by?
What does the protagonist feel pressured by?
What is Maleeka's admission to Miss Saunders about destroying the classroom, and how does she feel when pressed for more details?
What is Maleeka's admission to Miss Saunders about destroying the classroom, and how does she feel when pressed for more details?
Who confronts Maleeka the next day at school, and what pressure does Maleeka face regarding revealing the truth?
Who confronts Maleeka the next day at school, and what pressure does Maleeka face regarding revealing the truth?
What does Char do to Maleeka, and how does it make her feel?
What does Char do to Maleeka, and how does it make her feel?
How does Miss Saunders react to Maleeka's confession and accusation, and what happens to Char afterwards?
How does Miss Saunders react to Maleeka's confession and accusation, and what happens to Char afterwards?
What conflicting feelings does Maleeka have regarding her office job, and who gives her a letter with a poem expressing affection and admiration?
What conflicting feelings does Maleeka have regarding her office job, and who gives her a letter with a poem expressing affection and admiration?
What decision does Maleeka struggle with, and what choice does she ultimately make?
What decision does Maleeka struggle with, and what choice does she ultimately make?
What does Char offer Maleeka, and how does Maleeka respond?
What does Char offer Maleeka, and how does Maleeka respond?
How does Char retaliate against Maleeka, and what is the impact on Maleeka's situation?
How does Char retaliate against Maleeka, and what is the impact on Maleeka's situation?
What happens when Miss Saunders arrives at Maleeka's house, and how does Maleeka's mother respond?
What happens when Miss Saunders arrives at Maleeka's house, and how does Maleeka's mother respond?
What emotions does Maleeka experience when her mother tries to protect her from Miss Saunders?
What emotions does Maleeka experience when her mother tries to protect her from Miss Saunders?
What does the text capture about Maleeka's life and struggles?
What does the text capture about Maleeka's life and struggles?
Who comes to aid John-John after he was beaten up, and how does Maleeka feel about it?
Who comes to aid John-John after he was beaten up, and how does Maleeka feel about it?
What causes Maleeka and her mother to tear up, and what do they do with the letter?
What causes Maleeka and her mother to tear up, and what do they do with the letter?
What is the overarching theme of the chapter, as revealed in the text?
What is the overarching theme of the chapter, as revealed in the text?
What does Maleeka ultimately decide to do despite Char's offer?
What does Maleeka ultimately decide to do despite Char's offer?
How does the chapter end, and what feeling does it leave the reader with?
How does the chapter end, and what feeling does it leave the reader with?
How does Maleeka feel about her decision to tell on Char, despite the consequences?
How does Maleeka feel about her decision to tell on Char, despite the consequences?
Flashcards
Miss Saunders's teaching style
Miss Saunders's teaching style
Miss Saunders encourages self-acceptance, confidence, and critical thinking through creative assignments and open discussions.
Surprise Test
Surprise Test
A test given unexpectedly, designed to gauge understanding without impacting grades.
Self-Acceptance and Confidence
Self-Acceptance and Confidence
Learning to value oneself and believe in one's abilities.
Manipulating Pairings
Manipulating Pairings
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Desda's Struggle
Desda's Struggle
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Empathy Through Writing
Empathy Through Writing
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The Protagonist's Self-Image
The Protagonist's Self-Image
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Maleeka's Motivation
Maleeka's Motivation
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Miss Saunders's Influence
Miss Saunders's Influence
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Eavesdropping
Eavesdropping
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Mr. Mac's Role
Mr. Mac's Role
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Maleeka's Restrictions
Maleeka's Restrictions
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Maleeka and Sweets's Friendship
Maleeka and Sweets's Friendship
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Prestigious School
Prestigious School
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Sense of Belonging
Sense of Belonging
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The Protagonist's Struggle
The Protagonist's Struggle
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Miss Saunders's Past
Miss Saunders's Past
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Teacher-Student Dialogue
Teacher-Student Dialogue
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Miss Saunders's Impact
Miss Saunders's Impact
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Teacher-Student Interaction
Teacher-Student Interaction
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Miss Saunders's Expectations
Miss Saunders's Expectations
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Perfectionism
Perfectionism
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Eavesdropping Consequences
Eavesdropping Consequences
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Difficult Choice
Difficult Choice
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Confrontation
Confrontation
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The Power of Words
The Power of Words
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Family Support
Family Support
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Maleeka's Vulnerability
Maleeka's Vulnerability
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Study Notes
Miss Saunders's Class and Charlese's New Look
- Miss Saunders encourages self-acceptance and confidence, sharing her own self-perception and background in advertising.
- Miss Saunders initiates a surprise test to evaluate the students' knowledge and abilities, with no impact on grades.
- Momma takes the protagonist shopping after receiving a work bonus, allowing her to buy new clothes.
- The protagonist's new look draws attention at school, with Charlese making a negative comment upon seeing her.
- In Miss Saunders's class, the students are paired up for an assignment, and Charlese tries to manipulate the pairing but is thwarted by Miss Saunders.
- Desda, a talented cook, struggles with reading and is set to receive tutoring from Miss Saunders.
- Miss Saunders assigns the class to write a diary from the perspective of a teenager in the seventeenth century to foster empathy and imagination.
- John-John questions the assignment, and Miss Saunders explains its purpose as an exercise in writing and imagination.
- The protagonist observes Desda's enthusiasm for the assignment but initially remains silent.
- The chapter provides insight into the protagonist's evolving self-image and dynamics within Miss Saunders's class.
- Miss Saunders's teaching approach and the students' reactions to her assignments are highlighted.
- The text offers a glimpse into the protagonist's changing relationships with her peers and her mother's impact on her life.
Maleeka's Observations at School
- Maleeka's mother appreciates Miss Saunders' concern for Maleeka's well-being and wonders why someone with Miss Saunders' wealth and a good job would come to McClenton.
- Maleeka reluctantly agrees to work in the office and plans to find out more about Miss Saunders.
- Maleeka tries to get information about Miss Saunders from the secretary, Miss Carol, but is shut down. She then overhears teachers complaining about Miss Saunders' methods.
- Maleeka eavesdrops on teachers' conversations and learns that they have negative opinions about Miss Saunders' approach and the program she is implementing.
- Maleeka is caught eavesdropping by Mr. Mac and is reprimanded for not focusing on her work.
- Mr. Pajolli tries to reassure Maleeka and encourages her to work hard, but she is determined to find a way to quit her job.
- Maleeka's mother only allows her to be off restriction at home because she has started a new job, but Maleeka is relieved to have some freedom.
- Maleeka's best friend, Sweets, comes over and hogs the phone, talking to a boy named Larry.
- Sweets has a crush on Larry, and they talk about basketball, while Maleeka reflects on their friendship and her decision not to attend a prestigious school.
- Maleeka describes the girls at the prestigious school as different from her, with long, straight hair and lighter skin. She feels out of place and uncomfortable.
- Maleeka explains her reasons for not wanting to attend the prestigious school, reflecting on her identity and her feelings of not belonging.
- Sweets reassures Maleeka that skin color doesn't matter and that it's about how one feels about themselves.
Challenges of a Young Girl and Her Teacher
- The protagonist's father has died, and she and her mother have lived off his Social Security and savings.
- The protagonist is struggling with her behavior at school and her friendship with Char.
- She is working in the school office but finds it boring and wants to have fun.
- The protagonist encounters her teacher, Miss Saunders, in the hallway and engages in a conversation with her.
- Miss Saunders expresses her desire to teach and her decision to leave the business world.
- The protagonist is surprised by Miss Saunders' background and why she chose to teach at their school.
- Miss Saunders opens up about her previous career and her decision to transition to teaching.
- The protagonist questions Miss Saunders about her future plans and whether she will miss the money from her previous career.
- Miss Saunders affirms her commitment to teaching and expresses that she won't miss the material aspects of her previous job.
- The teachers at the school are stirred up by Miss Saunders, with some speculating about her intentions and her relationship with the principal.
- Most teachers resent Miss Saunders, except for Tai, who seems to be the only one who likes her.
- Miss Saunders' presence at the school has caused tension among the staff, with suspicions about her motives and her relationship with the principal.
Teacher-Student Dynamics and Personal Struggles
- Miss Saunders expresses frustration about the lack of help in moving items for her class and thanks Tai for assistance
- Tai expresses admiration for Miss Saunders' methods to keep students engaged
- Miss Saunders reveals that half of her seventh graders are failing
- Tai and Miss Saunders discuss the discrepancy between students' enthusiasm and poor test-taking skills
- Tai encourages Miss Saunders to not discourage students by failing them and to help them improve their test-taking abilities
- Miss Saunders insists on maintaining standards and believes the students will thank her later
- Miss Saunders acknowledges the challenges she faces due to personal appearance and the pressure she puts on herself to excel
- Tai advises Miss Saunders to not let the need for perfection ruin her, emphasizing her value as a teacher
- Miss Saunders catches Maleeka eavesdropping on their conversation and gets upset
- Tai remains calm and advises Maleeka on the importance of respecting others' privacy
- Maleeka refrains from sharing what she overheard with her friend Char, who is struggling in Miss Saunders' class
- Miss Saunders asks Maleeka to stay after school, indicating a pattern of making students stay late for her
The Skin I'm In: Facing Adversity and Making Tough Choices
- Maleeka encounters a group of people, including Caleb and his mother, who come to aid John-John after he was beaten up
- Maleeka feels grateful for Caleb's help and for being able to assist John-John despite his previous taunts about her skin color
- Maleeka's mother is concerned and supportive, making her tell the story of what happened multiple times before allowing her to retreat to her room
- Maleeka receives a congratulatory letter from the library for winning a writing contest, causing her and her mother to tear up, missing her absent father
- Maleeka and her mother frame the letter and hang it in her room, next to her father's poem
- Maleeka struggles with the decision of whether to tell on Char, who has threatened her, or keep quiet
- Char offers her money to stay silent, but Maleeka ultimately decides to tell on her for the incident involving the fire
- Char, however, retaliates by revealing that she framed Maleeka for theft, causing Maleeka to fear expulsion and isolation
- Miss Saunders arrives at Maleeka's house, accusing her of theft, and Maleeka's mother intervenes, inviting Miss Saunders inside
- Maleeka's mother tries to protect her, and Maleeka feels guilt and anxiety about the situation
- The chapter ends with a sense of apprehension as Miss Saunders confronts Maleeka, and her mother tries to shield her from the situation
- The text captures the complexities of Maleeka's life, including her struggles with self-worth, difficult choices, and the impact of her peers' actions on her future
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