Sometimes Bobby struggles with living in the shadow of his father, a famous athlete. After his father jumps onstage when Bobby has an asthma attack during the school musical, Bobby finally—bravely—shares his feelings.
Bobby the Brave (Sometimes)
Discuss the Book
“He’s Not Like Me”
Chapters 1–5
- Important Moment: After Bobby hears Dad say, “That Bobby—he’s not like me,” he worries that Dad is saying Bobby isn’t as brave, athletic, popular, or big and strong as Dad is.
- Ask and Share: What does Bobby overhear Dad saying? What does this make him worry about? Do you worry about what someone you’re close to thinks? Do you think there’s anyone who worries about what you think?
Dog Research
Chapters 6–10
- Important Moment: Bobby knows that actors research their roles, so he observes Chess’s dog Wilbur for his role as Sandy the dog in the school musical.
- Ask and Share: How does Bobby prepare to play Sandy? If you could play any animal in a show, what animal would you play? How would you prepare?
Asthma Attack!
Chapters 11–15
- Important Moment: When Bobby has an asthma attack in his furry costume, Dad jumps onstage and scoops him up, embarrassing him in front of everyone.
- Ask and Share: How does Bobby feel when Dad jumps onstage during his asthma attack? Has an adult ever embarrassed you? What happened?
Being Brave
Chapters 16–19
- Important Moment: Bobby decides to tell Dad that he heard him say, “He’s not like me.” Dad surprises Bobby when he says that he could never do what Bobby can do on a skateboard—he’s awed by Bobby.
- Ask and Share: What does Bobby finally tell Dad? How does Dad respond? Have you ever told an adult something that was hard to say? How did you feel after? Have you ever misunderstood a comment you overheard someone say?