Nightjohn

Examine Gary Paulsen’s use of diction. What stylistic choices does he make in regard to the dialogue and narration? How do these choices contribute to the reader’s understanding of the slave characters and their living conditions?

Analyze Paulsen’s characterization of Clel Waller. How is Waller described, and why are these descriptions significant? How does perspective factor into these descriptions?

What point is Paulsen trying to make about reading and writing? How would the story be different if Nightjohn taught Sarny a different subject, such as math or science?

What is the novel’s central conflict? Is the conflict resolved by the end of the novel? If so, how?

Consider Alice’s character. Although she is only mentioned in one chapter (Chapter 4), her story is a memorable one. What does her story highlight about slaves’ living conditions and the cruelty inflicted on them?

Analyze Sarny’s character development throughout the novel. In what ways does she change, and what catalysts bring about these changes?

The novel ends with a brief epilogue called “Words.” Why is this section significant? How would your understanding of Sarny and the novel as a whole change if this section was excluded?

What aspects of life as a slave does Paulsen include in the novel? Why do you think he included less “plot-relevant” aspects, like fieldwork?