The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs

Reading nurtures Eben’s imagination as a child. How does this lay the groundwork for his character development? What do the Seven Wonders of the World signify for him, and how do they influence his idea of the meaning of “wonders”?

Eben’s father incites his son’s quest. How does the novel characterize him? How does he define Eben’s character journey, and what does his perspective on wonders suggest to Eben about life and the world?

Aunt Pretty is the central female character in the story and is partly responsible for Eben’s upbringing. Analyze her character, identifying key scenes in the text that illuminate her life. Why does she initially oppose Eben’s trip to Colorado? What contributes to her changing viewpoint as the narrative unfolds?

Examine Eben and Jeb’s friendship and its development throughout the narrative. What are the key similarities and differences between the two children? How do they influence each other? Identify at least three examples from the text to support your answer.

What do Eben’s discoveries teach him about people in the Sassafras Springs community? How does his viewpoint as a child contrast with that of the adult world in his hometown?

Eben’s journey impacts the people around him and revitalizes the community of Sassafras Springs. What does this suggest about the process of personal growth and the formation of community consciousness in people?

Analyze Uncle Alf’s wooden carving of Sassafras Springs. What does the miniature signify for Eben’s life, and how does it complete his quest?

What is Eben’s perspective on “wonders” at the end of the story? What does the novel convey about their meaning through Eben’s quest? Does Eben’s new understanding of “wonders” connect to his transformation and his new outlook on life and the world?