The Golden Goblet

Ranofer does not have many friends until he meets Heqet. Discuss ways the two prove to be good friends to each other. Are there ways they are not good friends? Do you think their friendship is equal? Why or why not? Give evidence to support your answer.

Zau tells Ranofer he must reshape his life. How does his life change throughout the novel? What specific actions does Ranofer take to change his life?

What do Ranofer and ancient Egyptians of his time believe about death and the afterlife? How do his religious beliefs affect his actions and decisions throughout the novel? Give evidence from the text to support your answer.

Discuss the different forms of abuse Ranofer experiences at Gebu’s hands. In what ways does this abuse affect Ranofer’s character? How does he rise above Gebu’s abuse?

Queen Tiy is the only major female character in the novel. Discuss whether you think she is a strong character or not. Why do you think there are no other female characters? How would the story be different if they were present?

Although isolated by Gebu’s abuse, Ranofer still has significant role models in his life. Who are some of these role models? How do they influence his character and the choices he makes?

Ranofer discovers that doing the right thing can be very difficult. Consider some of the challenges Ranofer faces in the novel. How does he overcome them? Describe several ways in which he shows courage. How does Ranofer demonstrate perseverance?

The Golden Goblet was named a Newbery Honor Book, a runner-up to the Newbery Medal awarded for the most “distinguished contribution to American literature for children.” Why do you think The Golden Goblet received the award? What literary techniques, themes, and content made this title a winner? Do you think the book deserved the award? Why or why not?