A simple act of kindness can transform an invisible boy into a friend! Meet Brian, the invisible boy. Nobody in class ever seems to notice him or think to include him in their group, game, or birthday party . . . until, that is, a new kid comes to class. When Justin, the new boy, arrives, Brian is the first to make him feel welcome. And when Brian and Justin team up to work on a class project together, Brian finds a way to shine.

Discussion Questions

  • What are some ways Brian felt invisible?
  • How do you think Brian feels if he thinks he’s invisible to others?
  • Was it a fair way to choose players for the kickball team? Is there a way the teams could have been chosen that better includes everyone?
  • Did Madison and her friends purposely try to hurt Brian with their conversation?
  • What did Brian do to make himself visible to Justin?
  • How did Justin help Brian become visible?
  • Have you ever felt left out or invisible? What would have helped you to fit in or feel visible?
  • How could you help someone who might feel invisible?

Activities

  • Gather your class or your family together and sit in a circle. Give these prompts:
    • Stand up if you’ve ever felt invisible
    • Stand up if you’ve ever felt lonely
    • Stand up if there was a time you didn’t have anyone to play with
    • Stand up if you ever felt left out
    • Stand up if you have ever left someone else out
  • After, ask “what did you notice? What did you see?” The goal is for student to acknowledge that we’ve all felt left out — probably many times.
  • Brainstorm together what you can do to make sure no one in your class or family feels left out

One comment on “The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig”

  1. 1
    Heather Fronza on May 8, 2026

    The students made such good connections to this story! They had wonderful suggestions on how to include others.

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