Join the Discussion

Tiny Art Show - Theme Kindness & Family
Monday, February 2nd to Sunday, February 15th during library hours
Louisburg Library, 206 S. Broadway St., Louisburg, KS 66053

Remembering with Holly: Families
Monday, February 2nd from 11:00 am - 11:30 am
Louisburg Senior Center, 504 S. Metcalf Rd., Louisburg, KS 66053

Join the Book Discussion: Fighting Words by Kimberly Burbaker Bradley
Wednesday, February 11th from 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Louisburg City Hall, 215 S. Broadway St., Louisburg, KS 66053

Join the Book Discussion: Fighting Words by Kimberly Burbaker Bradley
Wednesday, February 11th from 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Louisburg Library, 206 S. Broadway St., Louisburg, KS 66053

Take & Make: Kindness Kits (ages 17+)
Friday, February 13th kits available while supplies last starting at 9:00 am
Louisburg Library, 206 S. Broadway St., Louisburg, KS 66053

Want to host your own discussion?

Here are some Discussion questions for fighting words:

1. What does it mean to be invisible? Why does Della believe Suki's superpower is the ability to be invisible?

2. Why are names considered to be first impressions? Is a person's name or appearance a reasonable basis for a first impression? Why might a name like Delicious be a difficult name to carry?

3. Throughout the novel, adults behave in ways that lead the children to act more like adults than the actual adults. What turning points determine our individual pathways to adulthood? What makes someone an adult?

4. There are many different types of families exemplified in the book. How does family play a role in shaping our values and beliefs? How do our values and beliefs shape who we are as individuals and influence our behavior?

5. Suki makes sacrifices for Della throughout the novel. If any, what are the boundaries between love and sacrifice, and where should one draw a line between them?

6. How are Della and Suki transformed through their relationships with others? Think about the people in your life who might take on transformative roles.

7. Reflect on all of the adults Della interacted with throughout the novel—some not seeing or listening to her, others taking the time to see and listen to her. What influence did these adults have on Della and the person she became by the end of the novel?

8. The power of words is demonstrated throughout the novel. Why do you think the author chose the title Fighting Words?

9. Clifton wielded power over Suki, forcing her to remain silent about his abuse. Ms. Davonte held a position of power in the classroom, and Trevor used his power as a bully over the girls in his class. To what extent does power or the lack of power affect individuals in Fighting Words? Where have you seen power conflicts arise in your own life, in your school community, and in the community at large?

-- Check out the Discussion Guide for more Questions --

Book Suggestions

Did you like reading Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley? Check out these other titles!