45 pages • 1 hour read
Whittington
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Themes
The Power of Storytelling
The novel’s use of embedded narratives supports its exploration of the power of storytelling. The three concurrent plot lines parallel one another, prompting comparisons to the ways in which individual characters take inspiration from stories to make changes in their own lives. These interactions between the three plot lines emphasize storytelling’s ability to create connections between others, model growth, and inspire change.
Stories are the mechanism through which Whittington and Ben overcome obstacles to achieve their goals in the novel. Whittington’s primary objective in the novel is to find a new home; by taking up the role of storyteller in the barn, he cements a place for himself there. Before Whittington begins his story in Chapter 10, the other animals are welcoming to him yet uncertain of how he will fit into their tight-knit community. At first, they even worry that he may be just another predator (18). However, after Whittington begins telling his story, he assumes a position of leadership in the barn, helping the Lady and Abby take charge of Ben’s reading lessons. Whittington’s story creates a shared interest in the barn, helping him to attain an important role as storyteller there.
