The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B

Adam embarks on a long journey to recover from his anxiety and overcome his compulsions. What steps does Adam take toward recovery, and which characters assist him? Consider these questions as you formulate a response: 

• How does Adam’s need to be a hero inhibit his character growth? How does he overcome it?
• What factors contribute to Adam’s compulsions?
• What is the role of lies and truth in Adam’s healing journey?
• Who are the members of Adam’s community that contribute to his character growth and well-being?
• Who or what hinders Adam’s character growth?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may find it beneficial to create a T-chart to outline factors that benefit and hinder Adam’s progress. Students can then use the T-chart in discussion to identify the specific passages in the novel where factors aid or hinder his recovery. Students can explore Adam’s progress to consider whether his journey is linear.

Differentiation Suggestion: Students who would benefit from additional assistance with abstract analysis may find it beneficial to identify benefits and hindrances to Adam’s progress by pinpointing specific passages in the novel that point to significant changes in Adam’s journey.

Examples: “They would leave their doubt-ridden, shell-shocked and agonizing selves at the door and become instead all-powerful beings.