36 pages 1 hour read

Scott O'Dell

The Black Pearl

Fiction | Novella | Middle Grade | Published in 1967

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Essay Topics

1.

Consider the title of the novel. Why might O’Dell choose this namesake? What might the “black pearl” represent?

2.

Compare and contrast the characters of Ramón and Ruiz. How are they similar and dissimilar? Why might O’Dell have chosen to write them in such a way?

3.

Chart Ramón’s character growth throughout the course of the novel. What are the different catalysts for his growth?