Stoner & Spaz
#1 in Stoner & Spaz Series
on Goodreads (3,140)
What’s inside...
For sixteen-year-old Ben Bancroft—a kid with cerebral palsy, no parents, and an overprotective grandmother—the closest thing to happiness is hunkering alone in the back of the Rialto Theatre and watching Bride of Frankenstein for the umpteenth time. The last person he wants to run into is drugged-up Colleen Minou, resplendent in ripped tights, neon miniskirt, and an impressive array of tattoos. But when Colleen climbs into the seat beside him and rests a woozy head on his shoulder, Ben has that unmistakable feeling that his life is about to change. With unsparing humor and a keen flair for dialogue, Ron Koertge captures the rare repartee between two lonely teenagers on opposite sides of the social divide. His smart, self-deprecating protagonist learns that kindred spirits may be found for the looking—and that the resolve to follow your passion can be strengthened by something as simple as a human touch.
Discussion points
How did Ben's relationship with Colleen challenge his perceptions of himself and others?
What do you think about the way Ben and Colleen handle their struggles? What might you have done differently?
How do you think friendships can impact personal growth?
In what ways do you see the characters change throughout the story? What do you think prompted these changes?
How do the characters' disabilities shape their experiences and perspectives in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own reflections on the book to model thoughtful engagement.
Ask your child to pick a favorite character and explore that character’s motivations and growth through specific examples from the book.
Encourage your child to consider how they might feel in similar situations faced by the characters, fostering empathy and deeper understanding.
Discuss the complexities of friendship as depicted in the novel, emphasizing open-ended questions that allow your child to express their thoughts and feelings.
Guide the conversation towards understanding diverse experiences, highlighting how the characters' disabilities influence their paths.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Differences
Explanation: In 'Stoner & Spaz', the interaction between the two main characters, Ben and Colleen, who are drastically different from each other, demonstrates the importance of accepting others regardless of their physical abilities or lifestyle choices.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace peers who may appear different or disabled, promoting inclusivity in their daily interactions at school and in play.
Example Lesson: The Value of Friendship
Explanation: The novel showcases the transformative power of friendship through the bond between Ben, a teenager with cerebral palsy, and Colleen, a rebellious loner. Their friendship helps them overcome personal challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can understand that building friendships can lead to personal growth and support, especially during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Overcoming Adversity
Explanation: Ben's determination to lead a normal life despite his disability illustrates the theme of overcoming adversity, which is central to the narrative.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persevere through their own difficulties, be it in academics, sports, or personal relationships, fostering resilience.
Example Lesson: Self-Discovery and Growth
Explanation: Throughout the book, both main characters engage in self-discovery which ultimately leads to personal growth and a better understanding of their own identities.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to explore and understand their own identities and accept their own unique traits as they grow.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: Colleen’s lifestyle choices bring about various consequences which affect not only her but also those around her, teaching the reader about accountability.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of considering the consequences of their actions on themselves and others, which is crucial in decision-making processes.