1. Eckert is careful not to depict Ben actually communicating with the animals or even understanding them.

Many other authors do not feel the need to take such precautions. Explain why Eckert does not want Ben to be a Dr.

Dolittle.

2. Ben communicates with people in one way and animals in another. Both ways are incomplete at best. Compare Ben's methods of communication, and explain why this element is important to the novel.

3. The principal conflict in the book is the one between man and nature. Show how this conflict develops with George Burton, and then show how it develops with Ben. What does this contrast do for the novel?

4. Obviously, the most important story line involves Ben's friendship with the badger. But Ben's father plays an important role too. Make a case for the relationship of father to son being...