Explore Matt and Aman’s friendship. How do their contrasting backgrounds shed light on themes such as privilege, exclusion, and belonging? How does Aman’s friendship with Matt help sustain him during his detention in Yarl’s Wood?

Examine the intergenerational relationships in the novel, particularly between Aman and his mother and between Matt and his grandfather. How do these relationships influence the development of empathy, moral awareness, and agency in the younger characters?

How does the novel portray acts of resistance, like hunger strikes and protests? What do these moments reveal about courage, solidarity, and the role of ordinary people in standing up to injustice?

While Matt’s grandmother is not present in the narrative, her influence lingers. Examine how her legacy shapes Matt and Grandpa’s choices.

Explore the friendship between Aman and Sergeant Brodie. How do they positively impact each other’s lives? How does their mutual connection to Shadow help shape their relationship?

Examine the role of the dog Shadow in Aman’s life. How does she function as a catalyst for connection and transformation? How does her presence shape the outcomes in the novel?

How does Morpurgo depict the psychological impact of war and displacement on both children and adults? How does the novel balance moments of despair with moments of hope and resilience?

Grandpa, Aman’s mother, and Sergeant Brodie treat the novel’s younger characters with empathy and respect. How do the younger characters impact the adults and contribute to their growth?