Rodrick Rules

How would the story develop if Greg had something to hold over Rodrick and blackmailed Rodrick instead? How would the roles the brothers have in their family change if at all?

Throughout the novel, Greg documents his various methods for avoiding hard work, especially in school. What lessons does Greg learn about these tricks?

Describe Rodrick as a character. What aspects of his personality make him an antagonist? How does Jeff Kinney make Rodrick a believable character?

Greg notes that Rowley tends to hang out with younger kids outside of school. Why do you think this is something Greg notices? Why is this an issue for Greg? What does this say about Rowley?

How would the story develop if Greg’s embarrassing accident stayed true to Rodrick’s version? In what ways would this have impacted Greg? How would it have impacted Rodrick?

Compare the parenting styles of Mr. and Mrs. Heffley. In what ways does Mrs. Heffley attempt to support her children? How does Mr. Heffley try to help his sons? How are these attempts received and why?

How does Kinney explore morality in Rodrick Rules? What situations in the novel suggest that morality may be more subjective to the individual? Use examples from the text to support your argument.

How does Kinney build tension around the last-minute cleanup of the party? How does the writing maintain this tension throughout the rest of the novel?