BLADE:
PLAYING DEAD
by Tim Bowler
Teacher’s
Edition
BLADE: Playing Dead
By Tim Bowler
Published by Philomel Books/Penguin
Young Readers Group
Copyright © 2008 by Tim Bowler
Originally published in the UK
ISBN: 978-0-399-25186-3
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
JLG Reading Guide
Copyright © 2009
Junior Library Guild
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ISBN: 978-0-98235-064-5
0
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Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
1
BLADE: Playing Dead
A novel by Tim Bowler
JLG Guide written by Jennifer Bishop
Table of Contents
About the BLADE series by author Tim Bowler ..................................................3
Building Background ................................................................................................4
Prereading Activities..................................................................................................6
Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 1–4 .........................................................................................................7
Chapters 5–8 .........................................................................................................9
Chapters 9–12 .....................................................................................................11
Chapters 13–16...................................................................................................14
Chapters 17–20...................................................................................................16
Chapters 21–24...................................................................................................18
Chapters 25–29...................................................................................................20
Chapters 30–34...................................................................................................22
Chapters 35–38...................................................................................................24
Chapters 39–42...................................................................................................26
Wrap-up.....................................................................................................................28
Library Applications.................................................................................................31
Suggestions for Further Reading ...........................................................................32
Correlations to National Standards .......................................................................33
A school may reproduce copies of the pages in this book for use in its
classrooms or library. Any other reproduction is strictly prohibited.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be transmitted, stored, or recorded in any form
without written permission from the publisher. For permissions questions, contact Junior Library Guild.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
2
About the BLADE Series
From author Tim Bowler
The BLADE series is an odyssey about a fourteenyear-old boy with a dangerous past and an
uncertain future. I have tried to write a pacy
thriller that not only focuses upon an engaging
central character but also touches upon issues that
concern me: gang culture, the exploitation of
young people in fragmented communities, youth
violence, and especially knife crime.
It horrifies me to think of young people using
knives, and while I am a storyteller rather than a
crusader, I cannot deny that one of my reasons
for writing the BLADE series was to try to show
young readers that you cannot wield a knife
without devastating consequences, both for your victims and yourself. Knives
have nothing to do with honor or respect. They are instruments of pain,
mutilation, and death, and the use of them requires a committed act of personal
savagery.
The boy at the heart of the BLADE series has lived by the knife but he is not a
thug. He is smart, articulate, even likable, and he’s in terrible danger. His
enemies are closing in, he’s becoming increasingly haunted by guilt for the
things he’s done, and he’s struggling desperately to find some kind of
redemption.
For more information about this author, visit www.timbowler.co.uk.
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3
Building Background
Book Summary
Fourteen-year-old Blade has been on the run and without a home most of his life. A
girl from his past gave him his name because he was so good with a knife. Too good.
Now she’s gone, and he’d just as soon leave all that behind him, including his name.
But he’s been followed to this new city where he “plays dead” so no one can ever
find him. That only works for a while, until he meets people he comes to care about,
only to watch them slip into his past, too.
Understanding Genre: Realistic Fiction
1. What makes a story fictional? How would you define realistic fiction?
A story is fictional if it didn’t really happen or isn’t true. Realistic fiction is a story
that is based in modern times, and the characters are involved in events that could
happen.
2. Based on the book summary above, why is the novel BLADE: Playing Dead
considered realistic fiction?
Blade is a teenager in circumstances that many people in the world are in: he is
homeless, has been in trouble, has lost friends, is trying to change, is running from
his past, and so on.
3. How would you know that BLADE: Playing Dead is not another type of fictional
story, such as historical fiction or science fiction?
Possible responses: It is not set in a historical time period or based on a historical
account like historical fiction; they use only modern technology in the story; it is
not about science or technology of the future or set in the future or a different
universe.
4. What do you like about realistic fiction? Explain why you like it more or less than
other genres.
Some possible responses: I can understand the characters’ struggles. It forces me to
think about tough subjects or decisions. It lets me into a world either that I
understand or wish I knew more about.
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Protagonist
Characterization
In realistic fiction, authors try to make their characters as real and antagonist
genuine as possible. If the story is going to seem as though it
Static
could really happen, then the characters need to be believable.
dynamic
What makes a character seem real?
Possible responses: A character seems real when he or she has the same needs and
emotions as people do. Characters also can seem real if they act or speak like people
really do. Real characters aren’t perfect.
Within a story, there are characters who are protagonists and antagonists. See the
chart below for a description of each kind of character.
Characters can also be described as static or dynamic. Static characters do not
change much as the story progresses. Things may happen to them, but events do not
change their basic natures. They are usually minor characters. Dynamic characters
do change, though, in response to the events of the story. They may have a minor or
major personality change and may grow better or worse, wiser or more foolish, more
likable or less likable, stronger or weaker, etc. Protagonists are often dynamic.
Role
Description
•
•
Protagonist
•
•
•
•
•
Antagonist
•
•
Example from
BLADE
Static or
Dynamic
Central character
Pushes the action
forward
Attempts to accomplish
something
Can be seen as good or
heroic
Complex
Character or force that
holds back the
protagonist
Directly opposes the
protagonist in some way
Can be seen as bad or a
villain
Does not have to be a
person; can be a group
or even an unresolved
situation or issue
Review the chart above, and think about examples of these types of characters as you
read BLADE: Playing Dead. You will revisit this chart later to fill in examples from the
story.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
5
Prereading Activities
Predictions
Read this partial summary of the story, and make predictions
Evidence
based on evidence from the text and/or from your prior
purpose
knowledge or personal experience.
Making Predictions
With a nickname like “Blade,” it seems like it might be hard to escape
your reputation. That is why the main character in this story does his best
to abandon the nickname and the actions that caused him to earn it.
Blade has gone underground successfully for three years, hiding in a new
city and learning how to survive and stay out of the police’s way.
However, after a painful and humiliating encounter with a gang of girls,
Blade finds himself in the middle of another mess, connected yet again to
a girl named Becky, and feeling as though everyone he cares for
eventually dies because of him.
1. How do you think Blade earned his nickname?
I predict:
Predictions will vary but will
most likely identify being
violent and/or skilled with a
knife as the reason.
Based on what evidence?
2. Why is Blade trying to leave behind his past?
I predict:
Predictions will vary but will
likely relate to a change in
personality or life goals or
escaping punishment.
Based on what evidence?
3. Set a purpose for reading based on your predictions above.
Possible purpose: My purpose for reading is to find out how Blade is changed or
affected by his situation and if he escapes his old life.
4. How would you feel if you met a new guy and his name was Blade? What effect
does that name have on how someone would treat him?
Possible answer: I would be nervous or wary of him probably. His name makes
you think he might be dangerous or violent.
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6
Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 1–4
pages 1–20
Before You Read
Hey,
Introducing Vocabulary
The author uses many British slang words and terms throughout the
story. As we go through the chapters, we will identify some of
those words as well as other vocabulary that make the story seem
more realistic. It is important to understand what they mean to
appreciate how they add to the story.
bigeyes.
Don’t be
a muffin.
Read the first three words below and define them. Check your answers using a
dictionary. Then write a sentence using each word.
1. constable (n.) police officer (British)
Possible sentence: The constable chased after Blade as he ran from the police station.
2. bungalow (n.) type of house, usually one story with a low roof or front porch
Possible sentence: There were probably many bungalows along the canal.
3. towpath (n.) a path along a canal
Possible sentence: The joggers ran along the towpath.
The next two words are slang words that you will not likely find in the dictionary.
Look for clues on the pages listed, and talk over possible meanings with your
classmates.
4. “blotched” (page 7) tattled; told secret
5. “muffin” (page 11) someone who is soft, easy to beat
After You Read
Analyzing the Writing: Point of View
1. From which character’s perspective is the story written? How do you know?
Blade is the narrator of the story. He is telling the story from his perspective.
2. Who is Bigeyes?
Bigeyes is Blade’s nickname for the reader. We are Bigeyes as we look into his life.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
7
3. Which point of view does the author use in this story: first-person,
third-person limited, or third-person omniscient? How do you
know? (Feel free to look up these terms and their meanings if you
need a review.)
Point
of
view
Blade is the narrator of the story, so the author uses first-person. Blade uses
pronouns such as I, me, my, and we learn only what he sees, hears, does, and
thinks.
Getting to Know the Characters
1. What past events have shaped Blade’s goals or affected his personality?
Possible responses: We know Blade has been in trouble and been involved in
violence. We know his friend Becky is dead, and that haunts him. We also know
that Blade wants to “play dead” and stay away from his past.
2. What can a character’s nickname reveal about him or her? How is that true for
Blade?
Possible responses: Nicknames usually tell us what other people think about a
character. Blade was known as being good with a knife, he got that nickname.
Responding to the Story
1. Why do you think the author begins the story with a flashback? Explain your
answer.
Answers will vary but should include that this first chapter gives us insight into how
young Blade was when he began using a knife. It’s also a good way to get the
reader snagged into the story and to be surprised when they learn he’s only seven.
2. How are chapters 3 and 4 a contrast to the first two chapters?
Possible responses: The first two chapters show a very tough, street-savvy side of
Blade. We learn a bit about his past and his current life. Then the next two
chapters show his weakness and vulnerability as he is beaten and then in need of
the old woman’s help.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 5–8
pages 21–39
Before You Read
Introducing Vocabulary: Context Clues and Slang
When you come across an unfamiliar slang word, sometimes the sentences or
paragraph around the word gives you clues about its meaning. As you read this
passage from page 36, look for clues to the meanings of the underlined terms “slap it”
and “snugged out.”
Most kids like me don’t last. They slap it for a bit, sleeping rough,
getting cold, then before they know it, they’re starving, shivering,
drugged out . . . Or they’re dead. Or they’re back home with
Mummy. None of that applies to me . . . I don’t get many nights
when I have to slap it. Five nights out of seven, I’m snugged out
and nobody owns me. Cos nobody knows I’m there.
1. I think slap it means sleeping outside or on the ground because he talks right after
that about “sleeping rough” and “getting cold.” It also seems like a negative term.
2. I think snugged out means secretly sleeping in a house or shelter because it seems
like the opposite of to “slap it” and it seems like a safe place (“nobody owns me”).
Making Predictions
And I’m still feeling scared.
In the last section, Blade leaves us with the words: “And I’m still feeling scared.” In
these chapters, the old woman invites Blade into her home so he can warm up. She
also gives him clothing and offers to call someone for him. Although it is hard to
know exactly where their conversation will go, make a prediction about how Blade
will respond to the old woman’s gestures to help. Then provide a reason for your
prediction, either from the text or you own life experience.
I predict:
Answers may vary.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
Based on what evidence?
Make sure students provide a
reason either from something
they’ve read in the text or an
experience they’ve had.
9
After You Read
Checking Predictions
Review the prediction you made before reading this section. How did your prediction
compare with what happened in these chapters? What events or new circumstances
surfaced that you didn’t expect?
Answers will vary. It is likely most students will not have expected a break-in at
Mary’s home or for gunshots to go off. They are probably not surprised that Blade is
careful and not fully trusting of Mary even as she tries to help.
Making Inferences
In a good story, the author doesn’t explain everything.
We as the readers have to read between the lines to get
a full understanding of certain things. We have to add
our previous knowledge to what the text says to make
an inference.
Read
between
the lines
Make an inference about why Blade does not want Mary to call anyone for him.
Answers will vary. Students will probably infer that Blade doesn’t have any family or
anyone close to call or that he doesn’t want his family to know where he is.
Responding to the Story
Read this excerpt from page 38:
Come with me and I’ll show you a bit of my world. Just a bit,
mind. Don’t get any ideas. But I need to talk. I need to get my
mind straight. I’m messed up. First the stuff with Trixi, then Mary
and that crazy dog. So you can stick around with me a bit
longer.
1. How does this passage make you feel like you’re a part of the story?
Possible response: It is written as though I am right there and Blade is talking to
me. The main character is inviting me to come along with him in the story.
2. What do you learn about Blade by the way he responds here to how his
circumstances have changed?
Possible response: He knows how to survive. He’s prepared and smart. He has
emotions.
I need to talk. I need to get my mind straight.
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Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 9–12
pages 40–59
Before You Read
Making Predictions
At the end of Chapter 8, Blade says he needs to “snug out” and then welcomes us to
“the snug.” He has just finished telling us about how he watches the city and knows
where there are empty homes. Make a prediction about what Blade will do next and
provide details.
I predict:
Possible prediction: Blade
will take us into one of the
homes where he stays. He
must know some way to get
in. He goes there to get rest.
Based on what evidence?
Reasons will vary based on
predictions.
After You Read
Checking Predictions
Review your prediction about what Blade was going to do next. Explain how it was
accurate or not. Was there anything you should have thought about when you made
your prediction?
Answers will vary based on predictions, but students will likely be surprised that
Blade was followed or that someone else knew about his secret house.
Responding to the Story: Making Connections
How can you relate to any parts of the story so far? For example, how are you like
any of the characters, whom do you know whose world is like Blade’s, or how are
your struggles similar to those in the story?
Answers will be unique but should include at least one example of how the story
connects to the reader’s life in some specific way.
Don’t breathe.
Just wait
and listen.
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11
Getting to Know the Characters
As we continue to read, we begin to learn more about how Blade survives, what he
likes, and why he is on the run.
1. How does Blade find out about the houses where he stays?
Possible response: Blade is always watching and observing the city and those
around him. He has spent time studying people’s patterns, eavesdropping on
conversations, etc. He even spent a year watching this couple and their house
before deciding to stay there!
2. What kinds of things does Blade do to make sure people don’t know he was there?
Possible response: He makes sure no one seems him enter, or in the house, or
leave the house; he hides his shoes; he makes sure everything is exactly as it was
when he leaves; and he knows what he can do where.
3. How does reading this quote from page 43 change your perspective about Blade?
I didn’t use to like ‘em [books] but I really got into ‘em now.
Sometimes, when I’m off my head, it’s books that calm me down.
Possible response: When you think about the stereotype of a violent teenager living
on the streets, you don’t think about him liking books. This quote surprised me but
also made me realize there is more to Blade than I realize. It makes me more
curious about him.
4. After Blade is nearly discovered in the house, what secret does he share with us?
Who does he think is looking for him? Look for a quote in Chapter 11 to explain.
Possible response: “There’s other people looking for me. Never mind why. All you
need to know is that I got enemies. And it’s big stuff, okay? Serious grime. And it
goes back a long way.”
Thing is, bigeyes,
something I haven’t told you . . .
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12
Geography Connection
Although the author does not tell us in which city the story takes place, we can
figure out some possibilities. We know the author is using British slang. We also
know that Blade guessed Mary had an Irish accent. Later on, Blade talks about
using a Scottish accent.
There are several countries within Britain—also know as the United Kingdom. Native
speakers usually speak English but have different dialects and accents of a British
variety. Blade could possibly be in any city in Britain.
First, research which countries
comprise Great Britain. Then find
out what major cities are in each
of those countries. Add a dot to
the map on each city’s location.
Then write in the name of the
city.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
13
Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 13–16
pages 60–80
Before You Read
At the very end of Chapter 12, Blade goes back to Mary’s house expecting to find her
and instead finds Trixi. Make a prediction about what happened with Trixi and how
Blade will respond in this section and give reasons for your prediction.
Possible prediction: Trixi had seen Mary take Blade back to the house and followed
them there. Then she got caught by the burglars and was hurt. I predict Blade will get
scared again and run away because he doesn’t want anyone to find him, even if it
means leaving Mary behind.
Introducing Vocabulary: Slang
Define these slang words or terms the author uses. Most slang cannot be found in a
dictionary, so do your best to figure out a definition. Look for clues on the pages
listed and talk over possible meanings with your classmates.
1. “gobbo” (page 60) crook, criminal
2. “rubbed me out” (page 61) murdered, killed
3. “zipping me over” (page 61) to lie, deceive, try to fool
4. “cream” (page 63) steal, take by force
5. “nebs” (page 66) police officers
6. “cute” (page 66) careful, carefully
7. “nick some stuff” (page 72) steal, shoplift
After You Read
Checking Predictions
Review your prediction about what happened to Trixi and how Blade was going to
respond. Explain how it was accurate or not. Was there anything that surprised you?
Answers will vary based on predictions. Students will probably not expect Trixi to be
dead or another gang member to be there. They will likely be surprised to learn the
house wasn’t Mary’s and that her body was nowhere to be found.
I follow. I don’t want to, bigeyes. I want to split.
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Analyzing the Writing
Look at how the writer organizes the text on the page. Sometimes the paragraphs are
long; sometimes a paragraph is only two words long.
1. Why do you think the author uses this style of writing?
Possible response: To make it more interesting and make the pace of the story go
faster or slower. Sometimes there is dialogue, so a new line begins when there is a
new speaker. Sometimes I think the author wants to emphasize certain words.
2. How does it change the way you read the text or how it feels when you read?
Possible responses: It keeps things moving. I feel the intensity of what is happening
in the story like when the man broke into the house and was coming up the stairs.
I felt like I was in the middle of the action.
Sequencing
Think about the main events of this section and their order.
Complete the circles below by summarizing what happens
in each chapter, including the outcome in chapter 16.
Event 1: Chapter 13
Blade finds Trixi dead
and is confronted by
man who knows who
he is.
I’m not
arguing.
She’s got the
knife and
I haven’t.
Event 2: Chapter 14
Blade escapes with girl
from gang, and they run
from men who are after
him. Blade goes to find
out more about Mary.
Event 3: Chapter 15
Blade learns girl’s
name is Becky and
hears story about what
happened. He finds
out house wasn’t
Mary’s.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
Outcome: Chapter 16
Blade gets coerced into
helping Becky find a
place to hide for the
night.
15
Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 17–20
pages 81–106
Before You Read
Ask Questions
When you read a story, it is normal to have questions about the characters and the
story line. In fact, it is important to ask questions as you read! With each chapter,
hopefully more of your questions are answered. Think about the questions you have
after what you have read so far. You can use the sentence starters below or write
your own questions. Keep these questions in mind as you read this section.
1. Who is coming with Becky? Who is she talking about?
2. I wonder why Blade is so worried about Becky telling the police about him.
3. How will the author continue to reveal more about Blade’s past?
4.
5.
After You Read
Getting to Know the Characters
Characterization is the way writers reveal the nature of people.
Writers include details about appearance, background, actions,
and speech to show the kinds of people their characters are.
Blade
Becky
1. Describe Blade’s character using the chart below.
jaz
Background History
Lived in another city three years ago, got into
trouble
Family Situation
Reader doesn’t know of any family
Physical Appearance
Keeps clean, wears nice clothes
Fears
Being caught, causing people to get hurt
Personality
Rough but feeling, determined, smart, careful,
mistrusting, creative
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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2. How does Blade’s personality come out in the way he looks and acts?
Possible responses: We can tell Blade cares about being clean and well-dressed.
We see how smart, careful, and creative he is by the way he moves around the city
and has kept hidden. The way he acts also tells us he’s disturbed by his life and
doesn’t trust people.
3. Would you say Blade’s character is the protagonist in this story? Why or why not?
Yes. Blade is definitely the central character, the story revolves around him, and he
is the character who pushes the action forward. He is not necessarily seen as a
good person or hero as some protagonists are, though.
4. Is Blade’s character static or dynamic? Why?
Possible responses: Blade is a dynamic character because we see him change as he
responds to story events. He is also becoming more likable as the story builds.
Responding to the Story
On page 92, Blade is in the house trying to rescue Jaz. He says:
May need to wig it fast. But I’m not going without Jaz.
Don’t ask me why. I don’t know either. But I’m not going
without her.
Why do you think Blade is feeling this way and expressing this?
Possible response: Blade feels a sense of responsibility to keep a promise to Becky
or to save this little girl from the drug house. He is used to going with his feelings
about things, and maybe he is just uncomfortable with the idea of leaving her.
I wish I was her.
But I’m not. I’m me.
Try as I might, I’m always me.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
17
Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 21–24
pages 107–128
Before You Read
Introducing Vocabulary: Context Clues
As you read this passage from page 107, look for context clues to
the meaning of the word specter.
It was good playing dead. I was sleeping my life out and it
was sweet. I told you life’s a whack. Trouble is, it’s only a
whack when you’re in control. Rest of the time it’s a dredge.
I got to get a grip, got to sort out what to do. I’ve been a
ghost for three years but now there’s specters after me again.
It was
good
playing
dead.
1. I think specter means a haunting spirit because he talks about being a ghost that’s
now being followed by bad things that are coming back from his past.
2. Explain what he means about life being “a whack” or “a dredge.”
It the phrasing he uses for when life is either good or bad; easy or hard; etc.
Making Predictions
At the end of the last section, Blade tells Becky “It’s just beginning.” Thinking about
Blade and Becky’s previous discussions and other details you can remember, try to
predict what the two will do next.
Details
Becky wants a place to stay.
Blade seems protective of Jaz.
Blade uses a knife again.
Blade wants to stay away from police.
I predict:
Possible prediction: Blade will take Becky and Jaz to one of his
“snags.” Then they will keep running from those following them
together.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
18
After You Read
Checking Predictions
Based on what you read, was your prediction
about Blade and Becky’s next steps accurate?
To go to the
future, you got
to have a future.
Responses will vary based on predictions. Students will probably accurately predict
that Blade will find a place for Becky and Jaz to stay at least for the night.
Getting to Know the Characters
The author helps us get to know the characters by sharing details about them or
showing what they do, what they say, or how others react to them. Use this chart to
summarize what you know about these characters so far in the story. Give one
example for each character listed.
Examples will vary.
Detail
What I learned about the
character from this detail
[about Jaz:] “I’m telling you,
Bigeyes, she melts me, this kid.
There’s just something about
her. She’s like a pixie or an elf
or something.” (page 120)
Blade definitely has a
sensitive side. He is not
completely hard and
calloused. It seems like he is
becoming more this way.
Character
Blade
Becky
“But I’ll tell you one thing about
Becky—Trixi was wrong about
her. The girl’s not yellow. She’s
just scared and that’s not the
same thing at all. She’s still got
her eyes closed, see? But I’m
telling you, she’s wide-awake
and she’s thinking hard.” (page
108)
Blade thinks Becky is strong
and smart. She is not a
coward like Trixi or the girls
said. But she is scared about
what’s going to happen.
Technology Connection
The Internet and other technologies have made it easier than ever
to gather research data. Using reliable Web sites, conduct some
research on gang-related violence and crimes. Choose three
American cities, and find out details about the crime statistics in
those areas. How prevalent is gang activity? How do gangs
contribute to crime?
Then compare and contrast the kinds of problems each city faces.
Create a poster to show your findings. Make sure to cite the Web sites
you use.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 25–29
pages 129–154
Before You Read
Making Predictions
In the last section, Blade realizes they are being followed. Becky acts like she hasn’t
seen anyone, but Blade is sure “[s]he knows who he is.” Who do you predict is
following them?
I predict:
Possible prediction: the person
following them is the guy who
broke into Mary’s and then into
the house where Blade was
staying.
Based on what evidence?
It seems like this guy and his friends
know where Blade goes. Perhaps he
knew about the place where they
slept last night and followed them
from there.
After You Read
Checking Predictions
How did you prediction compare to what actually happened in this section?
Answers will vary. Possible response: No, I didn’t know about Riff and didn’t expect it
to be someone connected to the girls in the gang.
Analyzing the Writing: Dialogue
The author uses dialogue often as he writes. How does dialogue tell the story in a
different way from the rest of the narrative? How does it help us sense the
relationships among characters?
Possible response: Dialogue makes the story more realistic. We get to read the
characters’ words and see how they interact with others. For example, we can tell that
Blade talks to Jaz in a way that’s different from the way he talks to others. It makes
more of an impression to read his words than to read that “he is kind to Jaz.”
I’m losing it now, bigeyes. I can’t cope with this.
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Analyzing the Writing: Cause and Effect
A cause is why something happens. An effect is the result or a sign that something
happened because of the original event/thing. As we read this section, we see how
one event leads to several other unexpected events. As Blade, Becky, and Jaz are
heading to their next stop, they realize they are being followed. This changes Blade’s
plan and leads to different decisions and results.
Complete the cause-and-effect chart below. Look at the initial cause or event that
happens at the beginning of this section. Then list any positive or negative effects that
stem from that event. Feel free to add boxes for more effects if necessary.
CAUSE
Blade realizes they are being
followed by someone
Becky knows.
As a result, he . . .
EFFECT
Blade changes their path
and tries to mislead the
person following them.
EFFECT
Blade leaves Becky and
Jaz in a hidden area to go
find “enemies,” but then
Jaz is taken and Becky is
killed.
EFFECT
Blade tearfully regrets his
decision and decides to
“stop being prey” and to
chase guys.
Getting to Know the Characters
Describe the differences between Blade’s character at the beginning of the story and
his character at this part of the story.
Possible response: At the beginning of the story, Blade’s character seemed tough,
violent, mistrusting. He didn’t seem like someone who knew how to care for people.
Then we had started to see how he does care for Jaz and even for Becky. We also
learned that he really had tried not to be known by his knife and was walking away
from that past. As we get to this section, though, we wonder if Blade isn’t going to
become a violent person again.
I’m so dangerous it scares me.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 30–34
pages 155–183
Before You Read
Making Predictions
In this section, Blade responds to what has just happened to Becky and Jaz. He has
been following the guys who are responsible. What do you predict he will do next?
I predict:
Possible prediction: Blade is
planning to hurt or kill one of
the men.
Based on what evidence?
We know that Blade is violent and
capable. Now he is very angry, and
it is possible he might revert to his
old ways.
After You Read
Checking Predictions
Reread your prediction. Based on what you read, how did your prediction compare
with what really happened? Was there anything you forgot to consider when you
made the prediction?
Answers will vary. Possible response: Yes, I thought Blade was planning to respond
to the situation with violence, but I didn’t predict how he was going to approach the
men or that he would not be able to follow through completely with his plan.
Getting to Know the Characters
Several times in this section Blade seems to struggle with his decisions or following
through completely with his actions. What does this reveal to you about him?
Answers will vary. Possible response: Blade is not the same violent person he used to
be. After years without using a knife or trying to be violent, he is finding himself back
in an old part of this life. He is struggling with himself and wrestling with his
decisions and actions.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Making Connections
On page 155, Blade tells us:
. . . Don’t try and talk me out of it, Bigeyes.
It’s too late for words now. I’ve got both Beckys
in my mind. I’m seeing ‘em clear, I’m seeing Jaz, I’m
seeing all the other stuff. I’m breathing blood so bad I
want to rip up the sky.
I’m
breathing
blood
1. Describe a time when you were so angry about something you wanted to get
revenge.
Responses will vary.
2. When you feel that way, what are your options? What are some healthy ways
you can express your anger?
Responses will vary, but students should be able to explain that we have a choice
about how we act on our emotions. Some of our options include: being hurtful or
violent, walking away from the situation, trying to gain perspective, and choosing
to forgive and move on in our lives. Students should hopefully recognize that it is
not healthy to seek revenge or inflict pain upon people.
Responding to the Story
1. Why do you think Blade calls 911?
Possible response: Even though he hates the police, he wants to use them to get
the guys. He also wants to get the police off his own tail.
2. How does Blade change his appearance?
Possible response: He remembers a house where he can get all he needs in one
place. He cuts his hair, colors it with the mom’s hair dye, and then steals clothing
from one of the kids.
3. Why do you think Blade is so enticed by the books when he knows he might
trigger the alarm?
Possible response: We know he loves books, but he especially wants to escape
from life right now. It is like the books are a physical representation of escape.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 35–38
pages 184–206
Before You Read
Introducing Vocabulary
Well, I had
a plan.
Or kind of
a plan.
Read the first three words below and define them. Check your
answers using a dictionary. Then write a sentence using each word.
1. allotment (n.) plot of land left to someone to cultivate (British)
Possible response: The gardener used his allotment to plant a vegetable garden.
2. anorak (n.) pullover hooded jacket long enough to cover the hips
Possible response: I needed an anorak to protect my new shirt from the rain.
3. foliage (n.) leaves, flowers, branches
Possible response: The foliage changes colors in the fall.
The last two words are slang words that you will not likely find in the dictionary.
Look for clues on the pages listed, and talk over possible meanings with your
classmates.
4. “sort” (page 184) throw away; get rid of
5. “yonks” (page 190) ages; years
After You Read
Analyzing the Writing
1. How does the author build suspense and make readers wonder what Blade is
planning to do?
Possible response: The author likes to leave “cliffhangers” at the end of most
chapters, so you immediately want to read the next one to find out what happens.
The author also doesn’t feel like he has to explain what Blade is planning to do.
2. What effect does it have for Blade to speak directly to the reader?
Possible response: Blade creates a nickname for the reader and speaks directly to
us, it places us in the middle of the story. The author creates more intimacy by
writing it that way.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Responding to the Story
How has Blade’s time in the city been helpful to him?
Possible response: Early on, Blade told us to “never stop watching.” We see how
much he knows and how many resources he has because of his careful watching. He
also knows so many places, roads, and so on that are enabling him to work his plan
now.
Making Connections
On page 203, Blade is very emotional as he shares:
My old sweet Becky. She shouldn’t have died. She
should be alive. Why does everybody I care for have to die?
. . . They all die, Bigeyes. One by one they slip away.
What’s going to happen to me? Am I going to slip away too?
Maybe I’ll be dead as well by the end of the day, money
gone, dreams gone.
They all
die,
bigeyes.
One by
one . . .
How can you sympathize with Blade? Do you relate to his fears? Why or why not?
Responses will vary based on personal experience.
Visual Arts Connection
Blade is wrestling with serious fears and questions, and it doesn’t
seem that he has any support or guidance. If only he had a family
member, teacher, or mentor to help, he might not feel so helpless.
Think about movies or television shows you have watched in which
an older or stronger person came alongside someone and gave him
or her some tools and advice to deal with life.
Write down the titles and a brief summary of how the person
helped.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Chapter by Chapter
Chapters 39–42
pages 207–231
That’s what’s
Before You Read
getting to me.
Making Predictions
Everything’s
In the last section, Blade goes to find Jaz. Instead he sees
Riff from a distance. What do you predict he will do next?
wrong.
I predict:
Possible prediction: Blade is going
to spy on Riff to see where he
goes.
Based on what evidence?
He is convinced that they have Jaz
and Riff was the last one that had
her as far as he know.
After You Read
Checking Predictions
Reread your prediction. Based on what you read, was your prediction correct? Was
there anything that surprised you in this section?
Answers will vary. Possible response: My prediction was correct that Blade was going
to follow Riff, but I didn’t expect that Riff might be setting him up. I was surprised by
the whole section!
Analyzing the Writing
What details in the story make you feel like it’s real?
Possible response: There are many scenes that make the story feel real. Sometimes it’s
a detail like a person on a cell phone, or the dialogue is believable. The conflict and
violence (instead of perfect characters) also makes the story feel real.
Responding to the Story
1. Describe Blade’s mood as he is in the diner.
Possible response: Blade is nervous that his disguise won’t work. He’s angry at Riff
and Dig for hiding Jaz. But he is also bold as he tried to get the information he
needs to find Jaz.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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2. What surprise do we learn at the end of chapter 40 along with Blade?
We learn that Becky (“Bex”) is actually alive. Blade discovers her on the boat.
3. How does Blade’s perspective shift in this section? Give specific examples.
Possible response: Blade realizes that many things he believed were not true. The
biggest shock is that Becky is not Jaz’s mother, but he is also sadly surprised when
Jaz is scared of him. On page 225, he says “And suddenly it’s like nothing else
matters anymore.”
4. What most surprises you about what happens on the boat?
Answers will vary. Students will probably be surprised that Blade gets hurt and
doesn’t “save the day.”
5. At the end of the story, we read this from Blade’s thoughts about people from his
past:
“The faces go on floating, floating, floating. Then one by one
they start to slip away. And that’s when I get it, Bigeyes. That’s
when I understand. They’re from the past. But they’re not the
past. They’re the future. That’s right. If I live through this,
they’ll come back. But for now they’re slipping away. Like me.
Fading into nothing. And you know what, Bigeyes? Maybe
that’s best. Cos if I’m nothing, they can’t ever hurt me again.”
What does this final passage tell us about Blade?
Possible response: Blade feared his past. It seemed he really wanted to change but
just couldn’t shake it. This scene gives us a picture of how he felt. As he is hurt and
possibly dying, what he is recalling is all that has haunted him. It’s as though he is
taking comfort in possible death.
That’s when I understand. They’re from
the past. But they’re not the past. They’re
the future. . . . they’ll come back.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Wrap-up
Reviewing Predictions and Purposes
1. Turn to page 6 of this guide to review your first predictions. How accurate were
they? Did you provide good evidence for your predictions.
Responses will vary.
2. At the bottom of page 6, you set a purpose for reading. Did you accomplish that
purpose? How?
Responses will vary.
Reviewing Characterization
On page 5, we learned about protagonists and antagonists as well as static and
dynamic characters. Review the chart and the definitions. Then complete the chart
below with characters and/or elements from this story. Answers may vary. Sample
responses below.
Role
Description
•
•
Protagonist
•
•
•
•
•
Antagonist
•
•
Central character
Pushes the action
forward
Attempts to accomplish
something
Can be seen as good or
heroic
Complex
Character or force that
holds back the
protagonist
Opposes the
protagonist in some
way
Can be seen as bad or a
villian
Does not have to be a
person; can be a group
or even an unresolved
situation or issue
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
Example
Static or
Dynamic
Blade
Dynamic
“Gobbos”
Static
Trixi’s gang
Static
Blade’s past
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Character Development Story Map
Complete the Character Development Story Map below. Think of something that
happened in the story that caused Blade to change. Then complete the chart,
explaining the difference in his character before and after, as well as noting the event
that caused the change.
Blade
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Understanding Genre: Realistic Fiction
Look back at how we defined realistic fiction on page 4. Would you still say this story
fits that definition? Why or why not?
Possible response: Yes, we know the story is set in modern times. For example,
people use cell phones. Even though the characters are involved in things that not
every kid can relate to, the events are still realistic and could/do happen.
Responding to the Story
Based on this story’s ending, where would a sequel pick up the story? Which
characters would return? How would you expect the characters to change?
Responses will vary.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Library Applications
Research: Freedom Writers
In the movie Freedom Writers, an inspiring teacher makes a significant difference in
her students’ troubled lives. The students in the story are facing much of the same
violence, confusion, displacement, and personal loss that Blade faces in this story. The
movie’s story is based on real events that happened in the 1997–1998 school year.
If possible, coordinate with other staff to show
Freedom Writers or a similarly themed movie in your library
or school. At the least, encourage students to watch the
movie on their own time.
Discuss with students the Freedom Writers Foundation.
Explain that their assignment is to research the foundation
using the Web site www.freedomwritersfoundation.org. Ask
them to write a summary page on their findings, including
who founded the foundation, its purpose, and what the
foundation does to help.
Writing = freedom
Favorite Literature Book Talks
Blade loved to escape or dream through reading
books whenever he could. He had memorized
characters, their lines, and which houses had the
books he loved.
Ask the students to think about their favorite
books or the book they like to read that takes them
away to another world. Have them locate the book
in the library or bring in their own copy.
Start a book club that allows students to take
turns sharing their favorite books. You might want
to consider videotaping their book talks and air
them on your local school information network.
reading = escape
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Suggestions for Further Reading
Other books by Tim Bowler:
BLADE: Running Scared. Oxford University Press, 2009.
Frozen Fire. Oxford University Press, 2008.
Shadows. Oxford University Press, 2007.
River Boy. Aladdin, 2004.
Books about gangs, violence, or growing up alone:
Bonham, Frank. Durango Street. Puffin, 1999.
Ferris, Jean. Bad. Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, 2001.
Flinn, Alex. Breathing Underwater. HarperTeen, 2002.
Hinton, S. E. The Outsiders. Viking Press, 1967 (and others).
Myers, Walter Dean. Monster. Amistad, 2001.
Wild, Kate. Fight Game. The Chicken House, 2007.
The Freedom Writers Diary : How a Teacher and 150 Teens Used Writing to Change
Themselves and the World Around Them. Main Street Books, 1999.
Books on anger:
Crist, James J., Ph. D. Mad: How to Deal with Your Anger and Get Respect. Free
Spirit Publishing, 2007.
DiConsiglio, John. Out of Control: How to Handle Anger—Yours and Everyone
Else’s. Scholastic/Children’s Press. 2008.
Hipp, Earl. Fighting Invisible Tigers: Stress Management for Teens. Free Spirit
Publishing. 2008.
Marcovitz, Hal and Gail Snyder. A Guys’ Guide to Anger/ A Girls’ Guide to Anger
(Flip-It-Over Guides to Teen Emotions). Enslow: 2008.
Copyright © 2009 Junior Library Guild/Media Source, Inc.
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Correlations to National Standards
For Grades 9–12
Content Area
Standard
Number
Standard Objective
Visual Arts
NA–VA.9–12.6
Making Connections Between Visual
Arts and Other Disciplines
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.1
Reading for Perspective
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.2
Reading for Understanding
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.3
Evaluation Strategies
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.4
Communication Skills
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.5
Communication Strategies
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.6
Applying Knowledge
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.8
Developing Research Skills
Languages Arts: English
NL–ENG.K–12.11
Participating in Society
Geography
NSS–G.K–12.1
The World in Spatial Terms
Geography
NSS–G.K–12.2
Places and Regions
Technology
NT.K–12.5
Technology Research Tools
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