A Friend Like Simon

Summary

In *A Friend Like Simon*, Matthew shares the story of his new classmate, Simon, who is a bit different from other children. At first, Simon's behavior—like his sensitivity to changes and his preference for solitude—confuses Matthew. However, during a school trip, Simon surprises everyone by standing up to a bully, Hetty. This act of courage helps Matthew understand that being different is okay and that kindness and inclusion are key to friendship. Through Simon, Matthew learns valuable lessons about empathy, acceptance, and the importance of not leaving anyone out because of their differences.

Takeaways

• 😀 Simon is a new student in Matthew's class who is a little different from the others.
• 😀 Simon has some unique behaviors, such as needing things to stay the same and getting upset over small changes.
• 😀 The narrator, Matthew, initially doesn't understand Simon's behavior and sometimes gets annoyed with him.
• 😀 Hedy, a mean girl at school, always pushes to the front of the lunch line and causes trouble.
• 😀 Matthew tries to include Simon in games but notices that Simon prefers to be alone at times.
• 😀 On a school trip, Simon and Matthew sit together, and Simon shares his lunch with Matthew.
• 😀 During the trip, Simon stands up to Hedy when she tries to cut in line, which helps Matthew see Simon in a new light.
• 😀 After the trip, Matthew becomes more understanding and inclusive of Simon, offering to play and have lunch with him.
• 😀 Matthew learns that despite Simon's differences, he is still a good friend and deserves kindness and respect.
• 😀 The story teaches the importance of accepting people for who they are, even if they act or behave differently.
• 😀 The key message of the story is that being kind and inclusive to others, no matter their differences, is the right thing to do.

Q & A

Who is the main character of the story?

The main character of the story is Matthew, who narrates his experiences with his classmate, Simon.

What is Simon's behavior like when he first joins Matthew's class?

Simon is quiet, acts differently from other children, and tends to keep to himself. He has certain routines and gets upset over small changes.

Why does Matthew initially struggle to connect with Simon?

Matthew doesn't understand why Simon behaves differently and feels frustrated when Simon refuses to join in games or interact like other kids.

What moment changes Matthew's perspective on Simon?

Matthew’s perspective changes when Simon stands up to a bully, Hedy, during a school trip. Simon shouts 'No' and prevents Hedy from pushing her way in front of the ice cream line.

How does Simon help Matthew understand the importance of friendship?

Through his actions and behavior, Simon shows Matthew that despite his differences, he is just like everyone else. Matthew learns the value of kindness, inclusion, and not excluding others because they are different.

What lesson does Matthew learn from Simon about being different?

Matthew learns that being different doesn't mean someone should be left out. It’s important to treat everyone with kindness and understanding, regardless of how they behave or interact.

What role does Hedy play in the story?

Hedy is portrayed as a bully who often pushes her way to the front of the line and makes mean faces. She represents exclusion and unkindness, contrasting with the story's themes of acceptance.

How does Matthew’s relationship with Simon evolve throughout the story?

At first, Matthew distances himself from Simon due to his different behavior. However, after the incident with Hedy, Matthew begins to include Simon more and asks him to join in activities, leading to a deeper friendship.

What does Simon do to defend himself and others during the school trip?

Simon defends himself and others when he loudly says 'No' to Hedy, stopping her from pushing her way to the front of the ice cream line. This act shows his strength and courage.

What is the story's central message?

The central message of the story is that kindness and inclusion are essential in friendships. Despite differences, we should accept and respect others, as Simon’s example teaches Matthew.