Stuntboy, in the Meantime

How are Zola and Portico similar? How do they differ? What brings Portico and Zola closer together and solidifies them as best friends?

How does Zola and Portico’s bond represent The Foundational Supports Provided by Friendship? Why does Portico always turn to Zola when his parents argue, and what does this suggest about the connection between friendship and The Effects of Family Conflict on Children?

Why did author Jason Reynolds choose to present Portico’s story like a television show? How does this stylistic choice add dimension to Portico as a character?

How do the conflicts described in Super Space Warriors relate to the conflicts that Portico’s parents are experiencing in real life? How does Portico use the lessons he learns from Mater and Pater’s mistakes?

Why do Portico’s parents’ arguing and separation cause Portico to experience the frets? How does Portico’s story illustrate the theme of Understanding and Experiencing Anxiety?

Why might Portico’s parents fail to see that he is suffering as a result of their conflict? What are the particular symptoms of family conflict that Portico exhibits? Are there any other potential effects not shown in the story?

Stories of family conflict amid a variety of family types and styles are common in middle grade literature. How do stories like Stuntboy, in the Meantime help children who might be experiencing something similar? Why is it important for stories to feature a wide variety of family types?

Why does Herbert lash out at Portico and Zola? How does Portico break through the conflict with Herbert and become friends? Analyze how Portico’s efforts to befriend Herbert are represented as an act of heroism in the text.