March 2- Perks of Being a Wallflower pre-reading questions

We began discussing the themes surrounding Perks. Students filled out the following worksheet:

Let me just start by saying that “Perks” is a great book.  It’s one of those books that when you’re done with it, you want to be a better person.  It forces you to look at life in a new way.  It helps you appreciate things more.  It also deals with some very real and very intense themes.  Themes that some people in this class may have a difficult time with.  Drugs, homosexuality, suicide, pain.  There are other themes also, but not ones that are difficult to discuss. 

Before we begin reading, I would like to talk about some of the more difficult themes and make sure that people feel comfortable talking and reading about them.  Or at the very least are prepared for them. _______________________________________________________________________

I would like you to answer these questions as honestly as possible.  I will collect them, but your answers will not be shared with anyone else.  There is no wrong answer.  Your opinion is the only thing that counts.

HOMOSEXUALITY:

1.  List 3 words that come to mind when you think of homosexuality.

2.  How do you feel about homosexuality/homosexuals?

3.  What would your friends do/feel/say if you “came out” to them as a homosexual?

SUICIDE:

1.  Some people call suicide “a cry for help.”  Some call it a “selfish act.”  What would you call it?  Would you call it something else? Explain yourself.

DRUGS:

1.  Why do people use illegal drugs or alcohol?

2. Do you look down on people who use drugs?  Why or why not?