Tight

Bryan picks up multiple “bad vibes” from Mike during the first weeks of their acquaintance. Why does he continue to socialize with Mike and follow his poor example? What part does Bryan’s family play in his reluctance to cut his ties with Mike?

Some of Pa’s friends refer to Bryan as his father’s “mini-me.” Why does Bryan find this both flattering and troubling? Use specific examples from the text to prove your point.

Ava introduces Byan to a TV show that realistically portrays people and conflicts that he recognizes from his own life. Compare and contrast this show and its message with Bryan’s own choice of entertainment: superhero comics. How do Bryan and others use superheroes as role models? Is this tendency helpful or problematic? Use examples from the text to prove your point.

Bryan’s friend Big Will stands out at school because he is physically mature for his age. In what ways is he also more emotionally mature than many of his classmates? What does this juxtaposition (his size and his calm demeanor) teach Bryan about respect and about navigating conflicts?

Melanie appears in only a few scenes in Tight, yet she is an important character. Cite some examples of how she influences other characters and helps to shift the outcome of the story.

Bryan’s mother chooses Mike to be his friend. How does her trust in him increase his power over Bryan and hurt her bond with her son?

Bryan, like his mother, is drawn to “chillness” (peacefulness) but also wants to prove that he is not “soft.” How does this inner conflict complicate his life, particularly after he meets Mike? What part does Bryan’s father play in this conflict?

Bryan avoids his father’s friends when he can, even though they are always kind to him. What do they represent that he finds disruptive to his family’s lives?