Flora’s mother labels Flora a cynic when the story begins, but this soon proves to be false. As Ulysses ignites hope in Flora, she opens up to The Possibility of the Impossible. While maintaining her affinity for practical thinking (with the help of “The Criminal Element” and “Terrible Things Can Happen to You!”), Flora learns the importance of magical thinking and how being open to amazing possibilities brings beauty into one’s life.

What might Kate DiCamillo be saying about the importance of hope during difficult times? Why do you think she chose to incorporate an unlikely superhero as the figure who brings hope back into Flora and others’ lives?

Teaching Suggestion: This prompt will help students examine the story’s progression, as well as how and why Flora evolves as a character. Encourage students to think about how Ulysses inspires those around him and the philosophies of Dr. Meescham. Brainstorming ideas in small groups may be beneficial before conducting a full-class discussion.

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

“The Power of Words”

After considering how words come in different forms and influence our lives, students will examine what words mean to them.