Beverly, Right Here

Read a book by Kate DiCamillo—not a part of the series—and draw connections between the story and the story of Beverly. For example, how does her first novel, Because of Winn-Dixie, develop the idea of Presence Versus Absence? How does her third novel, The Tale of Despereaux, portray The Need for Connection?

Mr. Larksong’s name derives from Jules Breton’s painting The Song of the Lark. Study Breton’s painting and explain how the work reflects the theme, tone, and mood of Beverly, Right Here.

The novel features many poems. How does the poetry add to the story? How does the poetry contrast with the Florida environment? What does poetry represent, and why does Elmer feel compelled to announce, “[I’m] a poetry-loving sissy” (173).

Unpack Beverly and Iola’s relationship. How are they like friends? What makes them like a mother and daughter? How is each influenced or changed by their relationship? Cite specific moments that prove they care about each other.

Why did Beverly run away in the first place? In your words, explain what pushed Beverly to Tamaray Beach.

Beverly continually returns to thoughts of her departed dog Buddy. What does Buddy symbolize and why does his memory stick with Beverly?

Detail the evolution of Beverly and Elmer’s relationship. Why do they start off as antagonists? How do they become friends? When do they seem like romantic interests?

The book contains several passages about the inevitable horror in the world. Choose one of those passages to analyze. Summarize the passage and explain its context in the novel. Then use the passage to draw conclusions about the cruelty of the world, how to face it, or how to make peace with it.