In what ways does author Rex Ogle act like his mother Luciana, and why? How does he feel about himself when he does act like his mother?

Why does Rex blame himself for both his and his mother’s abuse? What does this indicate about the nature of abuse, and its impact on Rex’s perception of himself and the world?

How does Rex’s perspective of his family’s financial situation change from the beginning of the school year to the new year? Why does he decide to change?