The Yearling

How does the author portray women in the narrative (keeping historical context in mind)? What role do Ora and Grandma Hutto play in Jody’s life? Why does Jody hate Eulalie and Twink?

Jody often experiences strange, terrifying dreams. Analyze the significance of his dreams based on when they occur and their relevance to his character development.

What does water symbolize in the story? For example, consider the lack of fresh water on Baxter’s Island and the family’s dependence on the sinkhole.

Was Penny wrong to allow Jody to adopt Flag? Did this decision go against his philosophical view of nature? Why or why not?

Is Lem Forrester the main antagonist? Why or why not?

In her usage of dialect, the author uses a derogatory racial slur. How did this affect your reading of the text? Should books like The Yearling be banned, censored, or left as they are as reflections of history?

Consider the text’s discussion of food and sustenance. What do food preparation and the sharing of food symbolize?

Reflect on certain characters’ names and how they reflect their personalities (such as Penny and Buck). How do certain names represent larger themes in the text?