Firegirl Questions and Answers
Firegirl
What are the ten key parts in Firegirl?
The ten key parts in Firegirl include: Mrs. Tracy announcing a new classmate; Jessica, a burn victim, arriving; Jeff refusing to sit by her; Tom's mom suggesting he befriend her; classmates spreading...
Firegirl
Setting and time period of Firegirl
Firegirl is set in a contemporary suburban environment, specifically at St. Catherine's School in Connecticut. The story takes place over a few weeks during the school year, focusing on the arrival...
Firegirl
The primary conflict and its resolution in Firegirl
The primary conflict in Firegirl is Tom's internal struggle with how to treat Jessica, a new student who has severe burns. The resolution occurs when Tom overcomes his initial fear and uncertainty,...
Firegirl
Tom's characteristics in Firegirl
In Firegirl, Tom is characterized as a typical, somewhat shy middle school student who struggles with self-confidence and fitting in. He is compassionate and curious, particularly about Jessica, the...
Firegirl
How do Tom and Jeff change in Firegirl?
Although the narrator, Tom, changes significantly over the course of the novel, his best friend Jeff does not change--in fact, Jeff loses his chance to change, and the fact that Tom proves to be a...
Firegirl
What objects could symbolize the character Firegirl?
Objects that symbolize Jessica, the "Firegirl," include the broken prayer ring, the photograph of "Anne," and Jessica's open bedroom window. The broken prayer ring symbolizes Jessica's initial...
Firegirl
What events occur in chapter 11 of Firegirl?
In chapter 11 of Firegirl, Jessica sits at her desk and opens her pencil case; a photo flutters to the floor. Tom immediately picks it up and begins to ask Jessica about it. Other students also...
Firegirl
The conflict in Tony Abbott's 'Firegirl'
The main conflict in Tony Abbott's Firegirl is the internal struggle faced by the protagonist, Tom, as he grapples with his feelings and reactions towards Jessica, a new classmate who has been...
Firegirl
What are the themes in Firegirl?
The themes in Firegirl include growing up, the nature of serious injuries, and the power of friendship. Jessica's story is a powerful reminder that disabled people should not be treated differently.
Firegirl
What is the resolution in the book Firegirl?
Tom Bender is a deeply conflicted character. On the one hand, he wants to do the right thing. He feels sorry for Jessica and doesn't want to be yet another insensitive kid who shuns her over her...