Classic Starts: Oliver Twist Study Questions

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1. How does Oliver compare to other boys you have read about? Which other character that you’ve read about does Oliver remind you of the most?

2. In spite of his own needs, Oliver does his best to help Dick in any way he can. Why do you think he does this? Have you ever helped a friend even if it made your own situation worse? Do you have any friends that would do the same for you?

3. Do you believe Oliver was brave or desperate when he asked for more food? What would you have done in his position?

4. When Oliver leaves the workhouse to go live with the undertaker, he says that he hopes it will be an adventure. Do you think it turns into the kind of adventure Oliver is looking for? What’s the best adventure you’ve ever had?

5. When Oliver leaves the mortuary, he feels both frightened and excited. Have you ever had such mixed emotions?

6. Oliver seems to immediately trust every new person he meets. Why do you suppose this is? Have you ever trusted someone you shouldn’t have?

7. After breaking into the Maylie’s house, Oliver has a difficult choice to make: face their dogs or leave with Bill Sikes. What would you have done in his position? What is the most difficult choice you’ve ever had to make?

8. At one point in the story, Bill Sikes wonders what Monks is trying to hide. What did you think his secret was? Were you surprised to discover the truth? What is the biggest secret you’ve ever kept?

9. When Mr. Brownlow asks for information about Oliver, the Bumbles bring him a locket. Were you surprised at the contents of the locked? What did you expect it to contain?

10. By the end of the book, Oliver and Rose have both found their family. Do you think this is realistic? Have you ever known something like this to happen in real life?

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