63 pages 2 hours read

They Cage the Animals at Night

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | Adult | Published in 1984

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Essay Topics

1.

Why does Burch write the story in the voice of a child, instead of explaining the events from his perspective as an adult looking back? Is this approach effective? Why, or why not?

2.

Why is Doggie an important figure to Jennings? Is Doggie more significant to Jennings than other figures, such as his brothers or Sal?

3.

What defines a home, and how is this concept reflected in Jennings’ story? How is the idea of home connected to family and friendship? Cite examples from the book in your answer.

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