Setting and Plot Development

The story of "Big Mouth and Ugly Girl" unfolds in a specific setting and time:

• The events take place on a January afternoon, a Tuesday, at Rocky River High School. • The Drama Club plays a significant role in the story's context.

A key event that drives the plot is the alleged bomb threat:

• Rumors spread quickly about a bomb being found near the custodian's closet. • The school is evacuated, and a boy is arrested in connection with the threat.

Quote: "A boy said he'd heard that a bomb had been found in a closet near the custodian's gym"

The story explores themes of mistaken identity and the power of rumors in a high school setting. Matt's play, titled "William Wilson" or "A Case of Mistaken Identity," becomes symbolically significant in light of the events unfolding around him.

Definition: Mistaken Identity - A situation where someone is believed to be another person, often leading to confusion or conflict.

Matt Donaghy: The "Big Mouth"

Matt Donaghy is a central character in the novel "Big Mouth and Ugly Girl". He is portrayed as a top student with a high IQ of around 135, who enjoys making people laugh and has a passion for writing. Matt's life takes a dramatic turn when he is accused of making a bomb threat at school.

Highlight: Matt's nickname "Big Mouth" reflects his outgoing and potentially provocative personality.

Matt's family plays a significant role in shaping his character:

• His father is often traveling and worries about Matt's behavior affecting the family reputation. • His mother is described as fragile and concerned about Matt's reputation at school.

Quote: "Matt's dad: always traveling, worried that Matt's behaviors will ruin the family name"

The accusation against Matt becomes a central plot point, demonstrating the serious consequences of rumors and misunderstandings in a school setting.

Example: A rumor spreads that Matt was overheard in the cafeteria saying he was going to blow up the school.