Getting Played Page 20
From: Lawnmower Guy …yeah, we’re good!
I start laughing. Crazy and insane, I love my life here now. This is home. I learn something new every day and tomorrow, who knows?
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
In Getting Played Kenisha’s grandmother talks about the importance of family—the bond between Kenisha and her sister Jade—and keeping the family together. How does this bond get stronger in the book?
In the book there is a robbery at the Pizza Place where Kenisha works. One of the would-be robbers tries to take her hostage. But she quickly figures a way out of the situation. Have you ever faced a situation where you had to use your wits to avoid trouble?
Kenisha writes down her hopes, dreams, life lessons and, of course, recipes in her recipe notebook. It becomes a big part of her. What are some of the things you could put in your notebook?
The book’s title is Getting Played. Identify some of the ways you think Kenisha felt like she was being played. By whom? And how?
There are some very strong people in Kenisha’s life. They guide and protect her when she feels lost or confused. Who are some of the people you have around you and how have they helped you in difficult situations?
Kenisha and Jade find a large sum of money in one of Darien’s trophies. Kenisha hints that she wants to keep it, but Jade insists that they turn it in. What would you have done? What’s wrong with keeping the money? And could it be dangerous to keep it?
Kenisha’s locker is next to the locker of the hottest guy at Penn Hall, Troy Carson. Troy’s character is complicated. He pretends to be something he’s really not. Why do you think he does this? Do you think he’ll ever own up to the fact that he’s smart?
In the story, Kenisha likes to sit perched up high and look down below. She does this in her bedroom and in the private dance room on the top floor at Freeman Dance Studio. Why do you think she does this?
In the end, Kenisha decides to stay at Penn Hall and live with her grandmother and Jade, even though she knows there will be more drama in her life. Why do you think she chooses to stay?
Ms. Grayson, Kenisha’s History teacher, wants to help Kenisha with her problems. Do you think Kenisha will ever open up to her?
Kenisha can be strong, determined, selfish, thoughtful and resourceful. What character traits of Kenisha’s do you share and why?
Kenisha is still struggling to accept her mother’s death. Do you think Kenisha will ever accept Courtney as a mother-figure in her life? Why or why not?
Kenisha finds herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. Why is it always important to be aware of your surroundings?
Kenisha finds out that her best friend, Jalisa, has been hit by her boyfriend. She is shocked and hurt. She feels she should have been there for her friend. How would you handle the situation if it was your best friend?
GETTING PLAYED
ISBN: 978-1-4268-8898-4
Copyright © 2011 by Celeste O. Norfleet
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