Freak the Mighty

Friendship & Identity: Max and Kevin refer to themselves as "Freak the Mighty" when they join forces. How does their friendship impact how each boy views himself? What does it feel like to be more powerful as a duo than as an individual?

Disability & Perception: Kevin has a physical disability, while Max deals with learning differences and low self-esteem. How do people — including classmates, adults, and neighbors — perceive each of them? Do you think their experiences of being seen as "other" are similar or different? Why?

The Power of Storytelling: Kevin fills Max's mind with legends, quests, and "the word" (vocabulary). Why is storytelling and language so significant to Kevin? How does it change Max's world and shape his sense of possibility?

Family & Trauma: Max carries deep fear and shame regarding his father, "Killer Kane." How do a parent's actions influence a child's identity? Do you think Max is destined to follow in his father's footsteps, or does the novel suggest something different?

Courage & Heroism: The novel features many references to King Arthur and knights on quests. In what ways are Max and Kevin modern heroes? What challenges do they encounter, and what does "bravery" look like for each of them?

Loss & Grief: By the end of the novel, Max faces profound loss. How does he decide to cope with it, and what does his decision reveal about growth, memory, and resilience?

Friendship & Identity: Max and Kevin are quite different from each other in terms of physical appearance and intellect, yet they create a strong bond. What does their friendship show us about how we define ourselves in relation to others? How do both boys evolve because of their friendship?

Perception vs. Reality: Max thinks of himself as "not very smart" and worries about becoming like his father. How does Kevin challenge this view Max has of himself? What insights does the novel provide about the narratives we create in our minds?

The Power of Storytelling: Kevin encourages Max to document their adventures. Why is storytelling significant for Max's healing journey? What does the act of writing represent for someone who has felt unheard?

Courage & Heroism: The boys refer to themselves as "Freak the Mighty" and envision themselves as knights on a quest. In what ways do Max and Kevin each show real courage in their lives? How does the novel reshape our understanding of what it means to be a hero?

Family & Trauma: Max carries deep emotional wounds from his father's violence and the loss of his mother. How does the novel investigate the lasting effects of family trauma on a child's self-worth and sense of belonging?

Disability & Difference: Kevin has Morquio syndrome, which affects his physical development. How does the novel address physical differences—does it confront or shy away from stereotypes? What message does Philbrick convey about living with a disability?

Loss & Grief: How do both Max and the reader experience Kevin's death at the novel's conclusion? What does Max's choice to continue writing reveal about how we deal with grief and commemorate those we care about?