Before he even enters the exclusive world of Baileywell, Bart is hyper-aware of class in Bullyville. His family's never had much money, a fact that eats at his mother, who has long dreamed of being able to afford a Baileywell education. When Bart's dad dies, an anonymous donor makes that dream come true.
The problem is this isn't Bart's dream; he's heard horrible stories about the bullying that goes on at the elite school. And as the new kid—and one of the few day students at the boarding school—things don't go so well for Bart. In fact, he starts getting bullied by Tyro immediately. Is it tied to class? Or is the fact that Bart's bully is the son of his benefactor just a coincidence?
Questions About Class
- Do you think Bart's class has anything to do with his being bullied at Baileywell? Why or why not? Turn to the text for support.
- Do you think it's significant that Bart destroyed Tyro's expensive car as a means of revenge? To jumpstart your thinking, swing on over to the "Symbols" section to read up on both Tyro and his sweet ride.
- Why is Bart's mom so excited for him to go to Baileywell? Be specific, please.
Chew on This
Bart's self-consciousness about his family's social class sets him up for bullying at Baileywell.
Tyro bullies Bart because his family's paid for Bart's scholarship.