60 pages 2 hours read

Roald Dahl

The BFG

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1982

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During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

CHAPTERS 1-8

Reading Check

1. What is “the witching hour,” as referenced in Chapter 1?

2. What is the BFG wearing when Sophie first meets him?

3. How is the BFG different from other giants?

4. What type of animal does the BFG wish he had to “ride on,” as noted in Chapter 7?

5. What type of food does the BFG eat?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. What does Sophie see through the window, and how does she react?

2. What happens when the giant sees Sophie? What does he do with her, and how does Sophie feel about the situation?

3. Why did the BFG take Sophie? What does he reveal about daily life for the giants?

4. What is Sophie’s family background? How does the BFG react to this news?

5. What unique ability does the BFG have? What else does he share with Sophie about his life?

Paired Resources

The BFG (1989) and The BFG (2016)

  • Cosgrove’s 1989 film is an animated adaptation of Dahl’s novel, while Spielberg’s 2016 film is a live-action adaptation.
  • These resources connect with the themes of The Victory of the Underdog, The Power of Friendship, and The Joy of Silliness and Imagination.