Inkling

Examine the drawings in Inkling. What roles do they play in the story? Which drawings are the most effective? Which are the least? Why?

Analyze the characters of Inkling and Blotter to decode Oppel’s views on the ethics of using assisted art. Use specific examples from the text to support your analysis of the author’s larger message.

How are Peter’s parenting skills intimately connected to his ability to create art? Analyze at least three examples to explain your answer.

Compare and contrast Inkling and Blotter. What language does the author use to color the readers’ perceptions of these characters, and what larger philosophical messages are implied by Inkling and Blotter’s differences?

Analyze the characters’ interactions with Inkling. How does their treatment of Inkling reflect the true essence of their character? Use specific examples of at least three different characters to support your analysis.

Examine the author’s use of foreshadowing and implicit hints. If the story were to continue, what would happen to Peter Rylance and Karl Worthington? What would happen with the other splotches? What evidence from the text supports your predictions?

Many things hide or are hidden in Inkling, including physical objects, abilities and traits, and characters. Provide five examples of hidden messages or objects and explain the impact that hiding these things has on the story. How does finding or revealing them affect the story and the characters?

What does Inkling read? How does his reading affect him? What does Inkling’s responses to various media imply about the nature and long-term effects of reading? Use textual examples to support your interpretation.