1. The film adaptation of Rumble Fish aims to capture the novel's emotions and atmosphere. Watch the film and discuss how director Francis Ford Coppola endeavors to bring these elements to life on screen.

2. Investigate and present on the "New Realism" that some critics attribute to Hinton's influence on young adult fiction. Compare her work, especially Rumble Fish, with young adult fiction from before and after its publication.

3. Some critics consider Rumble Fish a successor to J. D. Salinger's The Catcher in the Rye (1951). Compare Rusty-James and Holden Caulfield, focusing on their views toward society and their rebellious actions. Does Rusty-James continue this tradition or diverge from it?

4. Investigate instances of teenage violence, both in gangs and among individuals. Analyze how Rusty-James's attitudes and behaviors align with or challenge the perspectives of psychologists and sociologists.

5. Compare Rumble Fish to a Greek tragedy like Sophocles' Oedipus Rex. Discuss the similarities in theme, philosophy, and literary technique.

6. Compare Rumble Fish to another realistic young adult novel such as Robert Cormier's Chocolate War (1974). Do these authors share any common viewpoints?