Stormbreaker Theme of Coming of Age

Stormbreaker is a classic coming of age tale—like Catcher in the Rye but with flamethrowers and stuff. Sold yet? Young Alex Rider is unceremoniously thrust into the adult world after the death of his uncle, but he's not ready to let go of his childhood without a fight. Thanks to the help of some nefarious villains, a hard-as-nails drill sergeant, and a couple of shady MI6 spies, though, Alex manages to grow into a confident and courageous young man. Whether he wants to or not.

Questions About Coming of Age

  1. What event kicks off Alex's coming-of-age experience? How can you tell?
  2. Why does Alex resist his growth at first? Does he ever completely make peace with it?
  3. What event, in your mind, signals Alex's transition into adulthood? Use the text to support your argument.
  4. How does his memory of Ian Rider help Alex come of age? Again, get specific.