1. Mark Twain is one of many authors who have written "boys' books." How does Penrod compare to Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn? Why are Twain's books more famous?

2. The nameless town where Penrod lives is described in enough detail that we have a good picture of life there. How is Penrod's world similar to the place you have grown up? How is it different?

3. We meet male and female characters of all ages in Penrod. Have the roles of men and women changed since Tarkington's day? If so, how?

4. Critics today agree that Tarkington's depiction of Herman, Verman, and their family is racist. Analyze Tarkington's depiction of blacks in Penrod.

5. Georgie Bassett seems to enjoy being called a gentleman, yet Penrod attacks anyone who dares to suggest that he is one. What does it really mean to be a "Little...