A Boy Called Bat

Examine Valerie’s actions. How does she feel about Bat? What is her internal conflict? Does she change over the course of the book, or does she remain static?

Compare and contrast Valerie and Bat’s father, Dad. How does each of them treat Bat? How does Bat feel about each of them, and why?

Describe the relationship between Bat and Janie. Do they have a close relationship? Why or why not?

Analyze Mr. Grayson’s teaching methods. Do you think his teaching style is more or less effective than the traditional classroom? Why?

Describe Bat’s relationship with Thor. How does Bat feel about Thor, and how does he show his feelings? Why is Thor important in the story?

Analyze Israel’s character. How does he try to show Bat that he wants to be friends? Why does Israel keep trying to be friends when Bat does not pick up on his social cues?

Identify the book’s literary devices. What is the purpose of these devices? How do the devices help the reader relate to Bat?

Analyze the book’s cars—Valerie’s, Dad’s, and Mr. Grayson’s cars. How do the cars characterize each character? Are the cars effective as symbols compared to other symbols (like the way Bat views hands)? Why or why not?