One District One Book

Question 1: Mrs. Brisbane wants to remove Humphrey from her classroom as she doesn't care for rodents. If you were one of her students, how would you react? How would you feel?

Question 2: At the end of the school day, Mrs. Brisbane leaves Humphrey alone in the classroom when he's never been without company. Humphrey finds this change to be very upsetting. Have you had a similar experience, one where something changed dramatically and it was upsetting?

Question 3: According to Humphrey, "There are two Mrs. Brisbanes," (pg. 17). What does he mean by this? Do you think that is true of a lot of adults? What about kids?

Question 4: To Humphrey, Mr. Morales is the most important man in the world. What is the principal of your school like? Does he or she have any qualities similar to Mr. Morales?

Question 5: Cooperation and teamwork are two very important traits in building relationships. What are other things that aid in maintaining strong relationships?

WEEK 2 QUESTIONS

Question 1: It is presumed that Sayeh got a 100% on her vocabulary test, yet she doesn't raise her hand. Why do you think she is so anxious about speaking up during class? What would you do or say to help her feel more confident? Do you ever feel scared of speaking up in class? How can you overcome this fear?

Question 2: After it is revealed why Sayah is so quiet, Humphrey says: "You can learn a lot about yourself by getting to know another species" (p. 54) Have you ever found yourself misunderstanding someone? How did you find a clearer understanding?

Question 3: Humphrey has never experienced Halloween before and doesn't get why the classroom is covered in scary decorations. If you were talking to someone who's never heard of Halloween, how would you explain it to them?

Question 4: Visualize yourself in Humphrey's cage and imagine how it would feel to have Clem pushing on the door to get into Miranda's room. How would you feel? What sort of plan would you make?

Question 5: Like Garth, many have secret struggles that can influence their behavior. If someone you cared about were facing similar circumstances to Garth's, what would you say to comfort them? If it were you, what words of support would you like to hear?

WEEK 3 QUESTIONS

Question 1: A.J.'s father offers several ways he and his brothers used to pass the time as children. Brainstorm at least three activities you and your family could do to spend time together with no screens.

Question 2: Garth and A.J. manage to patch up their friendship. Have you ever drifted apart from a friend? What did you do to close the distance? What did you learn, if anything?

Question 3: The pain of his accident leaves Mr. Brisbane struggling to be nice to himself and to Mrs. Brisbane. Think of someone you love. If that person was with you, what is something kind you would say to them? If comfortable, share what you'd tell your loved one.

Question 4: Be honest - did you expect the Brisbanes to like Humphrey by the end of their weekend together? Do you think Humphrey would come around to the Brisbanes? Were you pleasantly surprised? Explain your answer.

Question 5: The students of Room 26 celebrate many holidays together. What are some of the holiday traditions that you and your family perform each year? What are your favorites?

BONUS: No matter where he goes, Humphrey can help his friends, even if they don't all realize he's the one helping them. If Humphrey came home with you, what issue would he help solve for you? How would you thank him afterwards?