Consider the novel’s theme of Appearance Versus Reality. In what ways do the characters use appearances to disguise reality and manipulate outcomes, and how do these maneuvers impact the outcome of the plot? Use these points as you consider you response:

• How are appearances used to spread misinformation and influence the people of Norta?
• How do appearances enable the Silvers to justify their prejudice against Reds?
• In what way do appearances enable Silvers to ignore the precariousness of their positions of power?
• What is the novel’s message regarding the circulation of information in society?
• How might the spread of misinformation or the altering of appearances be used in the real world?

Teaching Suggestion: Once students have the opportunity to collect textual evidence and respond to the prompt, it may be beneficial to extend a topic regarding real-world parallels for whole-class discussion or Socratic seminar. For example, Queen Elara and Maven manipulate their surroundings through the spread of information and appearances. What concerns with the spread of information do readers see in modern society? What other modern day (or historical) parallels between appearance and reality can be seen?  

Differentiation Suggestion: For English learners or students who may benefit from a more structured or visual approach, small group work focused on an analysis of Queen Elara and Maven may be a helpful place to begin.