Nothing But the Truth by Avi
Chapters 1-10
1. Think about the advice that various characters have given Philip so far. What advice would you give him and why?
2. Is Philip lying when he doesn’t tell his father about the policy of
“respectful silence”? Why do people act as Philip does in such circumstances?
3. Write a character sketch about Philip as if he were one of your classmates. Use details from the novel, plus your own inferences and imagination, for ideas. Describe his appearance, if you wish, but focus on his personality.
Chapters 11-12
1. Think about Miss Narwin’s actions, her words, and what other people say to her. What are you finding out about her character?
2. Are Philip’s rights being taken away (the right to sing the National Anthem)? Explain your answer. Are there limits to Freedom of Speech (First Amendment)? Explain.
3. Get together and form a group of 3-4 classmates. One student should take on the role of
Philip; everyone else is a member from a student advisory panel that helps resolve conflicts. The panel should question Philip about why he wants to transfer out of Miss Narwin’s homeroom and class. Help your group develop and share a recommendation about how to deal and resolve this conflict.
Chapters 13-15
1. Interpret and comment on the following quotes: “Public opinion in this country is everything.” –Abraham Lincoln
“When a dog bites a man,that is not news, because it happens so often. But if a man bites a dog, that is news.” –John B. Bogart
2. If this storyline took place in your community, how do you think the story would be treated by the newspapers and the local radio and tv shows? Explain.
3.
“Gert, you know as well as I, it doesn’t matter if it’s true of not true. It’s what people are saying that’s important.”
Think about Dr. Seymour’s statement. Decide whether you agree with this statement. Write a 1-2 paragraphs supporting your opinion.
Chapters 16-19
1
. “Listen and watch the world around you. Try to understand why things happen. Don’t be satisfied with answers others give you. Don’t assume that because everyone believes a thing it is right or wrong. Reason things out for yourself. Work to get answers on your own. Understand why you believe things.”
-Avi
Do you share the same philosophy as Avi? Explain your thinking.
2. Do you feel that the school is being supportive of Miss Narwin? Explain.
3. Evaluate the atmosphere or mood (overall “feeling”) at the end of the story.
4. Would you sign a petition calling for Philip’s apology? Why or why not?
5. Critique the novel’s ending. What is your reaction? How would you improve it?