Tuck Everlasting

Themes

In any novel, there are many themes or insights about life that authors want to share with their readers.  Read the list of some potential themes in Tuck Everlasting.  Select 1 theme and reflect on how that theme relates to the novel and how that theme relates to life in general.  Remember to use specific support from the text to explain your thinking.

• Living means always changing
• Everyone who commits a crime should be punished
• People should have control over life and death
• Whenever you see an opportunity to make money, you should take it
• With every choice comes a consequence

Decisions, Decisions

In Chapter 25 we learn about an interesting decision that Winnie made.  She decided to pour the everlasting water on the toad so he is safe forever.  Did this choice surprise you, why or why not?  Why do you think Winnie made this choice?  Why was the toad so significant in her life that she felt she needed to protect him forever?

Then in the Epilogue we ultimately learn of Winnie’s decision regarding drinking the water.  She chose not the drink the water when she’s 17 and lived her life.  Did this choice surprise you, why or why not? What do you think were the reasons behind Winnie’s choice?  Would you have made the same decision, why or why?

In Chapter 14, Jesse makes an interesting proposal to Winnie.  He says, “How’d it be if you was to wait till your seventeen, same age as me–heck, that’s only six years off–and then you could go and drink some, and then you could go away with me.  We could get married, even,” (pg. 71-72).  He says that he and Winnie could have a wonderful time traveling the world and making the most of what their lives have to offer.

What do you think Winnie will choose to do?  Will she drink the water when she’s 17, why or why not?  If you were to place yourself in Winnie’s situation, what choice would you make?  What are the reasons for making your decision?

In Chapter 6 and 7 we learn that the Tucks have kidnapped Winnie for hopes that she will not share their secret about the spring.   If you were in Winnie’s situation what would you do?  Would you try to escape after the Tucks kidnapped you or would you choose to stay with them and hear their story?  Explain the reasons for your decisions.

Also, in Chapter 8 we learn about Jesse and Miles’ differing views on their immortality.  Jesse says, “We might as well enjoy it, long as we can’t change it,” (pg. 43).  However, Miles says, “There’s a whole lot more to it than Jesse Tuck’s good times…I just think you ought to take it more serious,” (pg. 43).  What do you think Miles means when he says, “There’s a whole lot more to it?”  Which view do you agree with, Jesse or Miles?  Explain your choice and your reasoning.

In Chapter 3 we meet Winnie Foster.  Winnie has the desire to run away.  Have you ever felt like running away like Winnie?  Why or why not?  What would be some of the dangers if you ran away from home?  How would you survive?  What are some reasons children run away?

Winnie also tells us, “I’m not exactly sure what I’d do, you know, something interesting–something that’s all mine.  Something that would make a difference in the world,” (page 15).  Why do you think Winnie has the desire to make a difference in the world?  Do you think that throughout the course of the book Winnie will be able to accomplish this goal?  Why or why not?

Remember to answer all parts of the question and use details from the text to support your response.  I can’t wait to read your responses

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Welcome ladies and gentleman to our classroom blog.  This is the place we’re you’ll be discussing your thoughts about the text we’re reading–Tuck Everlasting.  Please be mindful of the due dates and response lengths.  Have a wonderful day!  Remember if a question has multiple parts–answer all of them.

Reference your instruction sheet and rubric to help you formulate responses.