Fuzzy Mud

Fuzzy Mud is a sci-fi thriller. Describe several ways that Sachar builds suspense in the novel. In what ways did the suspense affect you as a reader?

Tamaya is faced with a moral dilemma, or Hobson’s choice: disobeying her mother and walking home alone, or disobeying school rules and following Marshall through the woods. Why do you think she chooses to follow Marshall? What consequences—good and bad—result from her choice?

Dr. Humbard objects to SunRay Farms—and to Fitzman for “creating life for the sole purpose of destroying it” (10)—but Senator Wright argues that this is the foundation of farming. What does Senator Wright mean? Does the book suggest that humankind has the right to kill other organisms for its own benefit? Why or why not?

Describe the effect of Chad’s bullying on Marshall. How does Marshall feel about himself? How does the book suggest that being bullied changes Marshall’s behavior toward others?

Why does Marshall continue to lie about being in the woods even after he admits that it’s “time to tell the truth”? (93) Do you think Marshall is right to lie? Why or why not? Support your answer with evidence from the story.

Consider the 10 virtues that Woodridge Academy tries to instill in its students, and pick three that you think Tamaya follows. Use evidence from the text to explain how she displays each virtue.

Tamaya, Marshall, and Chad are each isolated in different ways. Describe what makes each character lonely and how they overcome their isolation. How does each character change over course of the novel?

Tamaya considers Marshall “the brave one”—but Marshall knows that Tamaya helped protect him from Chad. Who do you consider brave—Marshall, Tamaya, or both? Support your reasoning, giving evidence to show how the character(s) you chose demonstrate valor.