Use these essay questions as writing and critical thinking exercises for all levels of writers, and to build their literary analysis skills by requiring textual references throughout the essay.

Differentiation Suggestion: For English learners or struggling writers, strategies that work well include graphic organizers, sentence frames or starters, group work, or oral responses.

Scaffolded Essay Questions

Student Prompt: Write a short (1-3 paragraph) response using one of the bulleted outlines below. Cite details from the text over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. The Shadow represents Capricorn’s evil, but the Shadow is turned against him.

• Why does Capricorn want to summon the Shadow?
• Describe how the Shadow is made to feel remorse and regret for its actions by Fenoglio’s words, which Meggie reads aloud.
• In your concluding sentence(s), describe the array of beings that are produced when the Shadow vanishes and its victims are brought back to life.

2. Explore the enigmatic character of Dustfinger.

• Despite Dustfinger’s betrayals and deception, overall is he characterized as a likable individual?
• Describe the times Dustfinger has demonstrated either loyalty or betrayal.
• In your concluding sentence, consider whether Dustfinger’s difficult situation (stranded in a world that he hates) justifies his wrongdoing.

3. Describe the differences between Basta and Dustfinger.