Boy of the Painted Cave

How would this book be different if it was written in omniscient third person? Would the narrative change if the reader knew what Graybeard and Volt were thinking too?

Do you think being different was more helpful or harmful for Tao?

Choose two characters to compare and contrast, like Graybeard and Volt. How are their roles and behaviors similar? How are they different?

Discuss the way the fear of evil spirits shapes the clan’s interactions with the natural world. Do these beliefs ever protect the clan? Why do you think the people do not question the taboo about the Slough, even when they are hungry?

Do you have experience being an outsider in a community? How did that shape your behaviors and world view?

Tao refuses to conform to the clan’s expectations and instead follows his own path. Others, like Kala and Graybeard, recognize the taboos are not helping the clan but still believe they must be respected. What are the pros and cons of Tao’s refusal to conform?

What role does the natural world serve in the novel? If the natural world was a character, how would you describe it?

Graybeard acknowledges that what he does may not be magic, but he says it still helps the people. Do you think it is good that he does not correct their misconception? What are some good things and bad things that could happen if Graybeard told the people that magic is not real?