55 pages • 1 hour read
T. Z. LaytonThe Academy
T. Z. LaytonFiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2022A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Essay Topics
Pick three players and write an essay in which you compare and contrast how they deal with the pressure of the Academy.
Samantha is the only major female character that Layton puts in the novel. What does her presence teach the young male players about women in soccer? What does it teach readers?
Why do you think the author chose to tell this story from Leo’s perspective? How might it have been different if it had been told in the third person? Or from Robbie’s perspective?
How does The Academy teach its readers about soccer? What techniques does it use to explain the sport to someone who might be unfamiliar with it?
Why are lizards important in this novel? How does understanding them and their role help us to understand Leo better?
Is Brock a static or a dynamic character? Write a persuasive essay in which you pick one side and argue why you have taken this stance.
Leo is one of only a few players who don’t have formal soccer training. How is this novel commenting on players’ socioeconomic privilege and their ability to succeed as professionals?
How does Leo’s approach to bullies change after his time at the Academy summer camp? Is he more confrontational? Or less?
What role do community and friendship play in this novel? How does they help Leo develop as a player?
Leo is confronted with a number of mental, emotional, and physical challenges throughout this novel. What are some of them, and how does he overcome them during his time at the Academy camp, both on and off the field?
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