Exile

Why do the elves insist on preserving “every creature on earth” (78)? Discuss how this connects to theme of community, using textual evidence.

Terik tells Sophie, “You’d be surprised by how powerful hope can be” (289). Explore the impact of hope on three characters of your choice, using textual evidence.

To what extent are the secrets the Black Swan keeps from Sophie necessary? In your discussion, draw on at least three examples from the text.

In what ways does Sophie’s response to challenges both mirror and differ from the Council’s? Use textual evidence to explore this topic.

What does the novel suggest about the importance of friendship and family in forming community? Use at least three specific examples from the text in your discussion.

In what ways does Sophie’s human upbringing benefit her in the elvin world? How does it get in her way?

How does Sophie’s development of her talents support Bronte’s criticisms? How does it refute them?

What do Dex and Sophie’s trees in the Wanderling Woods represent? How does this relate to Sophie’s journey of self-discovery in the novel?