86 pages 2 hours read

Yann Martel

Life of Pi

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2001

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Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Reading Check and Short Answer questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

Author’s Note-Part 1, Chapters 1-12

Reading Check

1. Which country controlled Pondicherry during its colonial period?

2. Who tells the author about Pi?

3. What is Pi’s double major at the University of Toronto?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. What connection is made by Pi between the two subjects he studies at university?

2. What psychological and physical obstacles did Pi overcome after his journey from India?

3. How does Pi feel about zoos and their impact on animal life?

Paired Resource

Pondicherry, India

  • This article describes the history and demographics of Pondicherry, India.
  • Facts in the article might spur connection to the themes of Survival Amid Chaos and Religious Belief and Practice.
  • What four former French colonies comprise Pondicherry? What religious affiliations are present in Pondicherry? How was Pondicherry impacted by The French East India Company? When was Pondicherry eventually returned to India? How is the colonization of India represented in Life of Pi?

Part 1, Chapters 13-36

Reading Check

1. What religion is Pi raised to be

2. lieve in?

3. Who is introduced as Pi’s wife?

4.