1. Does the dog Kanga play a symbolic role in the story? Does he embody the theme of the novel in any way?

2. What is the function of the episode in which Lalu is charged with thievery?

3. Research and describe life in India in the 1950s. Then discuss the accuracy of Sommerfelt's portrayal.

4. After a heroic journey in which Lalu has more or less been in charge of his own life, he is frustrated in Agra by the treatment of the callous gatekeeper. Is Lalu's defeatist attitude in keeping with his character when he resignedly turns back home? Would you change the ending to show Lalu in control rather than being indebted to the "do-gooder" Western characters?

5. Research and discuss U.S. efforts to help India or other underdeveloped countries. You might discuss the negative feeling these countries often develop toward...