Chapters 1-2
- The word “miraculous” means “like a miracle.” Why do you think the author would use this word to describe Edward's journey?
- How does Abilene feel about Edward? What clues tell you this? How does she treat him?
- What kind of family does Abilene come from? What clues tell you this?
- The word “ego” means “pride.” What bothered Edward most about his encounter with Rosie? Would you have felt the same way? What does this tell you about Edward?
- If you were in Edward's position, how would you feel when Abilene found you? Is this how Edward reacts?
- Do you think Abilene knows how Edward feels? If she did, would she treat him the same way?
Chapters 3-4
- Why do you think Pellegrina wants Edward to hear the story?
- If you had to compare the princess to another character in the book, who would it be? Why?
- The witch could have done anything to the princess. Why do you think she chose to turn her into a warthog?
- Do you think what happened to the princess was fair? Defend your point of view. If you didn't like the ending, how would you have changed it?
- Who do you think Pellegrina's story was really for and why? Did that listener understand the point of the story? What do you think will happen?
- The words Edward repeats to himself were part of the story. Who did they refer to in the story, and why do you think Edward likes them so much? Is this more proof that he didn't understand the story?
