Discussion Questions for Freak the Mighty by Rodman Philbrick

About the Book

Two boys are teased and bullied until they join forces and become Freak the Mighty. The unique friendship between a troubled, oversized boy and the tiny, physically challenged genius proves that courage comes in all sizes.

Discussion Questions

1. How does Kevin compare his life to that of King Arthur?
2. Why does Max cry after his first dinner with Kevin and Gwen? Did this surprise you? Why or why not?
3. When do Kevin and Max first become Freak the Mighty?
4. What changes for Max and his grandparents after the pond incident?
5. How does going to classes with Kevin help Max become a better student? How has a friend helped you or how have you helped a friend in school?
6. Getting older worries both Max and Kevin. Why do you think that is?
7. Why do you think Kevin tells Max about getting a bionic body?
8. Gram says that you can’t judge a book by its cover. List some examples of how this applies in the story and in your life.
9. List five words that you might want to add to your own personal dictionary to share with your friends.
10. Max and Kevin are friends largely because of their differences and similarities. What similarities and differences do you share with your best friends?