Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life Art and Culture

Ever heard of a struggling artist? Rafe definitely fits that bill. Though he loves to draw and sketch, he just can't seem to figure out where he fits in the world of arts and culture.

He won't even take credit for his drawings—he tells us they all come from his imaginary friend. By the end of the Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life, Rafe really comes into his own as an artist and he's on his way to a school that will appreciate his masterpieces. Next stop—the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Questions About Art and Culture

1. Why does Mrs. Donatello finally choose drawing as the way to get through to Rafe in their one-on-one tutoring sessions?
2. How do you think Jules's love of art influences Rafe?
3. Do you think Rafe will thrive at Airbrook…or run into some of the same problems he did at Hills Valley?

Chew on This

Rafe's art is an expression of what's deep inside him, which is why it's easier for him to pretend that Leo's responsible for it.

Rafe has to learn to use his creativity for good (e.g. painting a school mural) instead of bad (vandalism).