Character Conflicts Can Guide Thinking

Many of the characters in the books we have read this year  had to deal with a variety of conflicts throughout the stories. Bradley Chalkers in the book, There is a Boy in the Girl's Bathroom, by Louis Sachar, was the bully of the school. With the help of his councilor, Carla Davis, Bradley had to overcome the image of the bully he had become by dealing with conflicts involving his classmates, teachers, and even his own family. The author made us infer about the battle taking place inside Bradley by giving us clues using his actions on the outside.

Joel had to deal with conflicts of a very different nature in the book, On My Honor by Marian Dane Bauer. In the beginning, Joel's conflicts revolved around the choices he made with his best friend, and a promise he made to his dad. Joel's internal battles blinded his ability to see the possible severe consequences of his choices until it was too late. Finally, Joel had to deal with the guilt that haunted him like the stink from the river that now hid his friend.

Some of the conflicts in these books are not difficult to identify, but they can be difficult to reflect on in your journal. You need to use the clues the author gives you and and infer how your character is handling their situation and predict possible outcomes.

The Challenge: Think about the conflict your character is dealing with in the book you are reading. Can you identify at least one? Describe how your character is dealing with it. Predict possible outcomes based on the choices your character has decided to make. Please give the title and author of the book.


Mr. Kohl