Hate That Cat

How does the first-person narrative style affect your understanding of Jack’s character? How do his poems convey his emotions? Give examples from the text.

Explore the significance of sound in the novel and its relationship to poetry. How does Jack’s mother’s deafness affect his views on poetry?

How do Jack’s views about himself change throughout the novel? What events and insights contribute to these changes?

Why do you think Creech chose to title this novel Hate That Cat? What is significant, in particular, about Jack’s initial hatred of cats and his changing opinion of them?

Compare and contrast the characters of Miss Stretchberry and Uncle Bill. What ideas do each of them represent?

Pick your three favorite poems from this book, and explain why you like them. Remember to analyze the poetic techniques they use (like metaphors and alliteration) as you discuss them.

Jack has a deep fear of death and loss. Give three examples of how the novel portrays this. Do you think he comes to terms with death by the end of the novel? Why or why not?

Examine the poems by writers other than Jack that are included in this novel. How do these poems contribute to Jack’s appreciation of poetry and his growth as a writer?