Rules are an important motif in the novel. Rule-breaking and rule-following drive important events in the plot and structure both Kendra and Seth’s character arcs. What are the most important events in the novel that motivate each character’s growth in regard to rules? Explain your choices with rationale and text evidence. You may want to consider these points as you formulate a response:

• What role do rules play in structuring how humans and magical creatures relate to one another in the novel?
• What role do they play in both protagonists’ development?
• How does each character learn to balance obedience with risk-taking when appropriate?

Teaching Suggestion: After responding to this discussion question, students might revisit their response to the pre-reading question about rules. Has their perspective on the importance of following rules changed? After reading the novel, do they believe it is justifiable to break rules in some circumstances? They may also be prompted to reflect on what the novel ultimately posits about The Importance of Rules and When to Follow Them.

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

ACTIVITY 1: “Caretaker's Guide”