38 pages • 1 hour read
Walter MosleyThe Last Days of Ptolemy Grey
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2010A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
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Ptolemy is a very different person at the end of the novel from who he was at the beginning. Describe his progression. What lessons does he learn about himself and about life?
Why do you think Ptolemy describes Dr. Ruben as evil? Do you agree? Why or why not?
The novel examines old age and offers a subtle commentary on aging in America. What points do you think the author is trying to make?
Coydog has been dead for eighty-five years when the story begins. Explain why he is such a pivotal character in the novel. How does Mosley make him a strong presence?
How is Ptolemy’s apartment is analogous to his mental state at various points in the story? How do both his apartment and mind change?
Discuss Robyn’s background and character. What is her motivation for helping Ptolemy?
How do Coydog’s gold coins advance the plot? Give several examples.
Ptolemy and Robyn are not blood relatives, yet they form a strong bond with one another. How does their mutual affection transform them over the course of the novel?
How does Ptolemy’s attitude toward Melinda change over time? What does this reveal about his own psychological state?
Throughout his life, Ptolemy has been passive and afraid to act. What events does he regret? What does he set to rights at the end of his life?
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By Walter Mosley
