Task:
Summarize the key events of the excerpt and explain how they build tension and prepare the reader for the rest of the novel.

Guidance:

• Divide the text into main sections:
  a) Backstage at the theater
  b) Discovery of the game NERVE
  c) The dare in the coffee shop

• Track how the plot escalates — what changes from beginning to end?

• Identify moments that increase suspense (e.g., time pressure, fear, conflict).

• Consider how the ending raises questions and encourages further reading.

Guidance:

• Look at Vee’s thoughts, reactions, and inner conflicts.

• Identify quotes that reflect her insecurities and desire to step out of her comfort zone (e.g., being “the girl behind the curtain”).

• How does she interact with other characters (Matthew, Tommy, Sydney)?

• Note her reasons for doing the dare — how does she want to prove something to herself or others?

3. Characterization of Tommy

Task:
Describe Tommy’s role in the excerpt. What do his actions and reactions reveal about his personality?

Guidance:

• Observe how he supports Vee, even though he’s hesitant.

• Note his body language and dialogue (e.g., blushing, concern for privacy).

• How does Tommy contrast with Matthew in terms of attitude and values?

• What does his presence say about friendship and loyalty?

Guidance:

• The story is told from Vee’s point of view — how does this influence what we know and feel?

• Consider how the narration creates intimacy and allows access to Vee’s private thoughts and emotions.

• Are there moments of exaggeration or self-doubt that make the narrator seem unreliable or highly emotional?

• What effect does this perspective have on the suspense and emotional tension?

Guidance:

• Identify the main settings: backstage at the school theater, the hallway, the coffee shop.

• How does each location reflect Vee’s state of mind or her transformation?

• Look at how details (e.g., lighting, crowd, sounds, smells) add realism and tension.

• What symbolic meaning might the coffee shop scene have in terms of exposure or risk?

Guidance:

• Focus on descriptive language showing Vee’s anxiety (e.g., “tunnel vision,” “leaden legs,” “pounding heart”).

• Identify sensory descriptions — what does she see, smell, feel?

• How do the reactions of others (the barista, the snapping guy, Tommy) intensify the embarrassment and fear?

• How does this mood contribute to the theme of public pressure and personal risk?

Guidance:

Pay particular attention to:

• specific verbs and phrases

• Repetitions

• Questions

• Numbers

After Vee‘s first dare at the coffe shop….

Write a continuation of the excerpt and think about what the protagonists might experience next.

Guidance:

• brainstorm ideas what could happen next

• Think about possible complications

• Follow the structural pattern of the scene!!

I run out of the coffee shop, my face burning with embarrassment and disbelief. How could I have let it get that far? At home, I throw myself onto my bed, humiliated. Maybe this was a mistake. Maybe I should just quit.

I am still lost in my thoughts when my phone suddenly lights up. It is Tommy.

“Vee, you need to check your account. Right now,” he says, his voice full of excitement.

“What? Why?” I ask, still feeling defeated.

“You’re going viral. I’m serious.”

I sit up, heart racing, and open the app. My jaw dropps. He is right. Thousands of comments, likes, and shares. People are freaking out over what I did.

A wave of relief hits me, followed by something I didn’t expect, excitement. The comments are full of hype, support, and people begging for more.

In that moment, all thoughts of quitting disappear. I can’t stop now. I start scrolling through the dares again, ready for whatever comes next.

Formulate a statement in which you explain the risks of these challenges and need for an inceased protection of your peolple on social media

Her interactions reflect this conflict. With Matthew, she experiences flirtation mixed with discomfort. He teases her about her body (l.34–36), grabs her phone (l.41), and updates her status without permission (l.78), showing a lack of respect. In contrast, Tommy is caring and supportive. He asks if she’s okay (l.82), downplays his own efforts (l.93), and hesitates but agrees to help her film the dare (l.137–145), showing genuine friendship and loyalty.

Tommy’s personality is modest and kind. He values privacy (l.99), blushes when asked to join the dare (l.132), and worries about the consequences (l.134–135). Still, he supports Vee, which highlights his loyalty and quiet strength.

During the dare, Vee is nervous“My heart races... Every molecule in my body wants to run” (l.173–175)but pushes through. The humiliation afterward, when she realizes her shirt is see-through (l.221–224), doesn’t erase the fact that she acted bravely. Her journey shows someone insecure but determined to change and be seen. Tommy’s presence contrasts Matthew’s, reinforcing themes of real friendship and courage.