Then

In order to blend in with the other inhabitants of Genia’s town, Felix and Zelda take on the false identities of Wilhelm and Violetta, two non-Jewish Polish orphans. What are the difficulties and dangers associated with assuming these identities? To what extent are Felix and Zelda successful? Use examples from the text to support your response.

Zelda spends much of the novel rejecting her family, to the extent that it causes her to act out in the presence of Nazi soldiers and put herself, Felix, and Genia in danger. What causes this behavior? How does she eventually reconcile with her parents’ memory?

Felix shows a great capacity for imagination and storytelling throughout Then. Identify at least three instances in which storytelling has a profound effect on the characters. How can storytelling become a life-saving force?

Dov is a tragic character who lost his family and friends during the orphanage massacre. How is he comparable to Felix? How do they differ?

Protecting family members is one of Felix’s primary motivations. How does Felix determine who he counts as family? What does this say about his character?

Richmal Crompton is Felix’s favorite author, but she has a much deeper importance for Felix. What does Crompton symbolize for Felix? How does her writing impact the plot, particularly the book Felix steals from Mrs. Szynsky’s shop?

Compare and contrast Amon Kurtz and Cyryl Szynsky. How do their actions and beliefs reflect the social climate in which they were raised?

Genia admits to being raised to dislike Jews, yet she takes Felix in at great risk to her own life. Examine Genia’s character. What motivates her? Why does she risk her life to save Felix and Zelda?