Flora And Ulysses

What does Dr. Meescham mean when she says, “There is much more beauty in the world if I believe such a thing is possible” (130) in reference to Ulysses’s ability to write poetry? How does Ulysses embody this philosophy?

In Flora and Ulysses, DiCamillo utilizes a variety of fonts and text faces, while also incorporating full-page illustrations and comic strips. What effect do these choices have on one’s reading experience? How do they help characterize Flora?

How do Flora and Ulysses and DiCamillo’s other works present themselves as middle-grade novels through their characters and themes? What issues do they address that are relatable to children in the middle-grade age group?

The Power of Words is a prominent theme in Flora and Ulysses. Why are words important to Flora and Ulysses in particular? How do words strengthen their bond?

What does it mean to “become illuminated”? Consider the possible meanings of the phrase, and how these meanings are demonstrated throughout the novel.

How would you describe Flora’s relationship with her parents in the beginning of the novel compared to the end? How does Ulysses help Flora’s parents reconnect with their daughter?

Flora starts out as a cynic who doesn’t believe in romance, dislikes her mother, and feels alone in the world. How do Flora’s new friends transform her into someone who believes in The Possibility of the Impossible? Do any of these friends experience a similar change in heart? How so?

Incandesto and Ulysses are both superheroes whom Flora admires for their courage, kindness, and sincerity. On the other hand, Flora frames her mother as an archnemesis. In what ways is Flora’s assessment of her mother true? In what ways is their relationship affected by Flora’s love of comics?