How to Steal a Dog Discussion Questions: A Dive into Ethical and Legal Dilemmas
In the captivating novel “How to Steal a Dog” by Barbara O’Connor, readers are taken on a thrilling journey that explores themes of friendship, courage, and the lengths one might go to in the name of love. The story revolves around a young girl named Georgia, who devises a plan to steal her neighbor’s dog, which has been living in a cage in her backyard. This act of thievery, while seemingly innocent, raises a plethora of discussion questions that delve into the ethical and legal implications of the characters’ actions. Let’s delve into some of these thought-provoking questions.
1. What motivates Georgia to steal the dog, and do you think her intentions are justified?
2. How does Georgia’s background and upbringing influence her decision to steal the dog?
3. Discuss the role of the dog, Shadow, in the story. How does his presence affect the characters and the plot?
4. In what ways does the author use the setting to emphasize the themes of the story?
5. How does the relationship between Georgia and her neighbor, Mrs. Bryant, evolve throughout the novel?
6. What are the consequences of Georgia’s actions, and how do they impact her and those around her?
7. How does the author portray the legal and ethical aspects of stealing a dog?
8. Discuss the role of technology in the story and how it influences the characters’ decisions.
9. In what ways does the novel challenge the reader’s preconceived notions about right and wrong?
10. How does the ending of the story resolve the conflicts and leave the reader with a sense of closure?
These discussion questions are designed to encourage readers to think critically about the story’s themes and characters. By exploring these questions, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in the act of stealing a dog and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. “How to Steal a Dog” is a powerful novel that serves as an excellent starting point for a thought-provoking discussion about ethics, love, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
