Shoofly Pie Group Discussion

“Shoofly Pie” Group Discussion

Targeted Passage 1: lines 1-10 p. 168 – These lines introduce the main character and the setting. Who is the main character? What are her first actions in the story? Where is she?

Targeted Passage 2: lines 89-92 p. 171 – These lines help move the plot along and reveal the character. What is the problem at the restaurant right now? Who suggests that Mattie could be the cook? What is Mattie’s experience?

Targeted Passage 3: lines 222-247 p. 175 – These lines help reveal the conflict between Mattie and Johnny. How does Johnny react when Mattie says she is sorry about his grandfather? What does Johnny say when Mattie calls herself the new chief? How does Mattie feel about Johnny at this time?

Targeted Passage 4: lines 337-353 p. 179 – These lines help to show how the relationship between Mattie and Johnny is changing. What does Johnny ask Mattie to do? How does Mattie react? What information does Mattie tell Johnny about her personal life?

Compare and Contrast Characters – What character traits do Mattie and Johnny have in common? In what ways are they different? Use a Venn diagram to record your answers.

Analyze Characters – A foil is a character who provides a striking contrast to another character. How does Riyad serve as a foil to Johnny’s character?

Analyze Conflict – What incident in the story leads to a resolution of the conflict, or struggle, between Mattie and Johnny? Explain your answer with specific details from the story.

Draw Conclusions – Reread lines 465-482. Has Mattie gotten over her grief by the end of the story? Cite evidence to support your conclusion.

Evaluate Characters – Is Mattie a believable character? In your response, consider whether she acts and speaks the way a real person would and whether her relationships and interactions are believable.