Stargirl

The questions inside

One per chapter, across all 33 chapters — every question is editable before you print.

1. What do we learn about Leo in Chapter 1, and why do you think the porcupine necktie is important to him?
2. How does Stargirl first seem different from the other students at Mica High? Use details from the chapter.
3. What are some ways the students react to Stargirl? What do their reactions show about the school?
4. Stargirl does not seem worried about fitting in. What does this chapter suggest about being yourself?
5. How does Wayne Parr represent what is considered “normal” at Mica High? Why might that matter in the story?
6. Leo and Kevin want Stargirl to be on Hot Seat. What do you predict might happen if she goes on the show?
7. Describe one kind or unusual thing Stargirl does in this chapter. How does it affect the people around her?
8. How does Stargirl begin to change the mood or spirit of the school? Give an example from the chapter.
9. Why do some students become upset when Stargirl cheers for the other team? What does this tell you about loyalty?
10. Do you think the students are fair to Stargirl in this chapter? Explain your opinion with reasons.
11. How does Stargirl act when people question or criticize her on Hot Seat? What does this show about her character?
12. After the Hot Seat episode, what changes for Stargirl at school? How do you think she feels?
13. What does Leo notice when he follows Stargirl? How does this help him understand her better?
14. How is Leo’s relationship with Stargirl changing? What feelings does he seem to have about her?
15. Archie often gives advice or wisdom. What lesson does he seem to be teaching Leo in this chapter?
16. Leo starts to feel pressure from other students. How does that pressure affect the choices he makes?
17. The word “shunning” means leaving someone out on purpose. How does shunning appear in this chapter, and why is it hurtful?
18. What changes does Stargirl make when she becomes Susan? Why do you think she decides to change herself?
19. Do you predict Susan will become more accepted by the students? Why or why not?
20. How does Susan act at the speech contest, and what does her behavior show about her hopes?
21. What is disappointing about the way students respond to Susan’s success? How would you have responded?
22. What does this chapter show about the difference between popularity and true happiness?
23. Stargirl seems to return to being herself. What signs show that she is no longer trying to be Susan?
24. What do you predict will happen at the Ocotillo Ball? Will it be a happy event, a difficult event, or both?
25. How does Dori show friendship to Stargirl? Why is having one loyal friend important?
26. Describe Stargirl’s entrance or actions at the dance. How does she affect the people there?
27. When Hillari treats Stargirl cruelly, Stargirl responds in a surprising way. What theme or lesson do you see in that moment?
28. How do you feel about Leo’s choices near the end of the story? What would you have done differently?
29. What happens after Stargirl leaves? How does her absence affect Leo and the school?
30. What does Archie help Leo understand about Stargirl and the way people remember her?
31. Choose one symbol from this chapter or the story, such as the porcupine necktie, the desert, or a star. What might it stand for?
32. How has Stargirl’s time at Mica High changed the people around her, even after she is gone?
33. At the end of the book, what do you think Leo has learned from Stargirl? How might this lesson stay with him?

Example answers

Printed at the front of the booklet, so your reader can see what a strong answer looks like.

Stargirl does not seem worried about fitting in. What does this chapter suggest about being yourself?

I think this chapter suggests that being yourself can make other people curious or even uncomfortable. Stargirl acts in her own way, even when the other students stare at her. I think she is brave because she does not hide what makes her special. This makes me wonder why the other students care so much about everyone being the same.

The word “shunning” means leaving someone out on purpose. How does shunning appear in this chapter, and why is it hurtful?

Shunning appears when people stop talking to Stargirl and even make Leo feel left out too. It is hurtful because it makes someone feel invisible, like they do not matter. I think ignoring someone on purpose can hurt as much as saying something mean. Stargirl seems strong, but I think it still must feel lonely.

When Hillari treats Stargirl cruelly, Stargirl responds in a surprising way. What theme or lesson do you see in that moment?

I see a lesson about choosing kindness even when someone is unkind to you. Stargirl does not try to get revenge on Hillari. Instead, she reacts in a peaceful and surprising way. I think this shows that Stargirl is true to herself and does not let other people’s cruelty control her.