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37 pages 1 hour read

Roald Dahl, Illustr. Quentin Blake

The Giraffe and the Pelly and Me

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1985

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Essay Topics

1.

At first, Billy sets aside his longing to restart The Grubber sweets shop. Why does he do this? How does this decision lead to Billy finally realizing his dream?

2.

When Billy first meets the three window washers, the Monkey does two odd things that charm the boy. Describe what they are, and suggest why they lead to Billy’s friendship with the animals.

3.

Why does the Duke want to shoot the Pelican? What do Billy and the bird do to change the Duke’s mind? Explain how this moment characterizes both the Duke and Billy.

4.

When the Duke says the three animals can’t get to his fourth-story windows, the Giraffe takes offense. Why? What is the Duke’s reaction to the Giraffe’s solution, and how does this help the animals?

5.

Describe how the three animals wash windows, and explain how this is an example of good teamwork.

6.

Both the Duke and the Chief of Police are ecstatic that the Pelican caught the Cobra. Explain the reason for each man’s delighted reaction. How does the capture benefit Billy and the animals?

7.

At the end of the novel, the window washers happily accept an offer from the Duke. What is the offer? Why does the offer make both the Duke and the animals happy?

8.

Coincidences play an important role in the story. Which coincidence contributes the most to Billy’s character arc?

9.

Describe what makes Billy’s store special. Which of the store’s candies is your favorite and why?

10.

Billy eventually revives his wish to start a candy store. How and why does the Duke help him? How do the animals help Billy?

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