Essay Questions

What does Leslie get Jess for his birthday?

Jess is a loner at school, but when Leslie joins his class they begin to have a connection that helps them to overcome the bullies. Leslie gets Jess a paint set for his birthday; he can't believe she could afford for something so nice, and it becomes a clear indication that the two like one another.

Why does Janice bully everyone at school?

Janice is one of the bullies at school, and with her size she can take on boys and girls, which she does--throwing someone's lunch on Jess on the school bus and demanding Leslie pay her a dollar to gain access to the bathroom at school. Yet Leslie learns that Janice's home life is abusive. Her father physically abuses her and the outlet for it is to do the same to her classmates. However, when Leslie is there for her and learns the truth about Janice's Dad they become friends.

What does Leslie offer to May Belle to keep?

Jess doesn't want his sister around while him and Leslie run together, and this puts May Belle off as she leaves to go inside. But, Leslie being kind offers to bring May Belle her old Barbie dolls which she'll let her keep as her own. This lifts May Belle's spirits as she goes inside, and we learn that Leslie believes Jess to be very lucky to have siblings.