The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy

The book is written from the third-person omniscient point of view, yet Birdsall uniquely develops the character and voice of each Penderwick sister. How does she do so?

Analyze the role of animals in the novel. Consider Hound, Cagney’s rabbits, and the bull.

Explain Mr. Penderwick’s parenting style. Is he too lax with the girls? What is the symbolism in his delivering pithy quotes in Latin to teach them lessons?