The Underneath

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2008

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Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-25

Chapters 26-50

Chapters 51-75

Chapters 76-100

Chapters 101-124

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Tools

Discussion Questions

Essay Topics

Appelt uses Ranger and the calico cat to illustrate how humans should not treat their pets. What conditions and human temperaments do you think Appelt would insist on for humans who want to own animals as pets?

How do Ranger and Gar Face operate as foils for one another?

The Alligator King is a lethal hunter who is responsible for the deaths of countless animals and humans. On the other hand, he warns Grandmother against acting vengefully and angrily. Overall, do you think the Alligator King is a character who elicits sympathy? Why or why not?