The Castle in the Attic

How does William’s father signal his intent to improve his relationship with his son? How does William respond and why? How does William’s relationship with his father relate to the novel’s theme of Passing the Tests of Adulthood?

Sir Simon helps William shrink Mrs. Phillips, but when he meets her, he realizes it was a bad plan. Why does he change his mind? What does this say about his sense of integrity?

William’s gymnastic practice turns out to be an asset once he is miniaturized. How do his skills in the practice of gymnastics impact his emotional development throughout the story? How do William’s gymnastics skills relate to the narrative’s theme of The Hero’s Journey?

William shrinks down to Mrs. Phillips’s size and goes to her. How does this convince her that William has changed? Why does she forgive him for shrinking her?

What does William do in Sir Simon’s kingdom that demonstrates his ability to overcome obstacles? Explain how each deed relates to the book’s theme of Passing the Tests of Adulthood and The Hero’s Journey.

Mrs. Phillips says music can soothe a beastly heart. How does William’s recorder playing accomplish this throughout the novel? How would the narrative have changed if William wasn’t equipped with his recorder?

Alastor gives signs of being damaged by his own magic. What are these signs, and how do they show that his evil ways have bounced back to warp him? Compare Alastor with Sir Simon and explain your understanding of the characters through the lens of the novel’s theme, Setting Free Those We Love.

Why does William’s reflection in Alastor’s magic mirror have no effect over him? How does this revelation connect to the book’s theme of Passing the Tests of Adulthood?