About This Book
Set in rural Vermont in 1899, Katherine Paterson's 'Preacher's Boy' introduces Robbie Hewitt, a rambunctious 10-year-old determined to live life to the fullest before the new century. Son of a strict preacher, Robbie chafes against family rules and grapples with complex feelings about his 'simple-minded' brother, Elliot. His rebellious spirit leads him into a deeply damaging scheme with lethal consequences for a community member. The story explores themes of personal responsibility, faith, family dynamics, and moral choice as Robbie must decide whether to take ownership of his actions, with a man's life hanging in the balance. It's a thoughtful historical novel that offers rich ground for discussion on growing up and making difficult choices.
Robbie Hewitt wants to live as much as he can in case the new century, 1900, means the end of the world. His antics leave his preacher father unimpressed. Robbie¿s temper and spirit soon ensnarl him in a deeply damaging scheme and he must choose whether to take responsibility for his actions while a man¿s life hangs in the balance. Includes an author profile.
Violence
peril_danger
mental_health_themes
Character Death
Discussion Prompts
1
Robbie has strong feelings about his brother, Elliot. Have you ever felt frustrated or complicated feelings about a sibling or friend?
2
Robbie challenges his father's beliefs and wants to live life differently. What does it mean to find your own path, and how can you do that respectfully?
3
The story talks about 'lethal consequences' and a man's life hanging in the balance. How do Robbie's actions lead to this, and what does it teach us about responsibility?
4
What was life like in 1899, and how did the idea of a new century, 1900, affect people like Robbie?
5
Robbie has to choose whether to take responsibility for his actions. Why is it so hard to admit mistakes, and why is it important?
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