How does the little black boy change throughout the course of the story? What causes these changes?

In what ways do the Creole and French cultures clash in this story? Why? Which one, if any, wins out?

Why are the teachers at the school intent on stamping out all traces of Creole from their children? What does the Creole culture represent to them?

Discuss the character of Big Bellybutton. Why does the little boy find him so fascinating? What does he admire about him? How has Big Bellybutton influenced the person the narrator has become?

What is the purpose of the répondeurs? What do they add to the story? Do they symbolize or stand for anything?

Discuss the theme of racism in this story. Who is racist and why?

How does the Teacher attempt to educate his pupils? What effect do his methods...