Song for a Whale

How does the story present the gap in understanding between people who are Deaf and those who can hear? To what extent does she show that they can overcome this gap?

How does the novel challenge stereotypes? You may refer to the story’s treatment of disability, age, race, and gender in your answer.

How does the story present the tension between self-reliance and collaboration? To what extent does the development of Iris’s character depend on her becoming more collaborative?

How does the story treat the relationship between children and adults? To what extent does it show that adults are reliable, trustworthy figures?

Discuss the novel’s presentation of Deaf culture. Why is it so important for Iris to belong to a Deaf community?

Compare and contrast the characters of Nina and Bennie. How is Bennie’s attitude toward deafness more helpful than Nina’s?

Discuss the significance and symbolism of vibration in the novel. How do vibrations help Iris connect with the whale and the world around her?

. Explore the novel’s portrayal of loss and bereavement. To what extent does losing Grandpa influence Iris’s experience with the whale?