Reflections:

A Student Response Journal for…

Life of Pi by Yann Martel

Written by Elizabeth Keenan

Copyright © 2008 by Prestwick House, Inc., P.O. Box 658, Clayton, DE 19938.

To T h e S t u d e n t

Although we may read a novel, play, or work of non-fiction for enjoyment, each

time we read one, we are building and practicing important basic reading skills.

In our ever-more complex society, in which reading has become more and more

crucialfor success, this, in itself, is an important reason to spend time reading

for enjoyment.

Some readers, however, are able to go beyond basic reading techniques and are

able to practice higher thinking skills by reflecting on what they have read and

how what they read affects them. It is this act of reflection–that is, stopping to

think about what you are reading–that this journal is attempting to encourage.

To aid you, we have included writing prompts for each section; however, if you

find something that you wish to respond to in the book more compelling than

our prompts, you should write about that. We hope you enjoy reading this book

and that the act of responding to what you have read increases this enjoyment.

After you read the indicated sections, choose the questions to which you will respond.

Keep in mind that there are no right or wrong answers to these prompts,

and there is no one direction in which you must go.

R e s p o n s e S h e e t Name__________________ Section_____ Date_______ 6

L i f e o f P i © Copyright 2008, Prestwick House, Inc.

Pre-Reading 1. Life of Pi seems like a strange title. The word ―Life‖ suggests that the book

will be a biography or an account of someone’s life, but the word ―Pi‖

suggests the Greek letter used in mathematics. These two concepts seem

completely unrelated.

What did you think Life of Pi would be about when you first heard the

title or saw the cover of the book? Write a paragraph describing what you

expect from the book, and why you expect it.

2. In the author’s note, Yann Martel explains that he went to India after his

second book was not well received in order to work on another book, to be

set in Portugal in 1939. He claims that his choice to do so made sense for

several reasons, including that ―…a novel set in Portugal in 1939 may have

very little to do with Portugal in 1939.‖

What do you think Martel means by this statement? Interpret this seemingly

contradictory statement as best as you can.

Chapter 1 3. In Chapter 1, Pi Patel talks about the sloth. He explains the characteristics

of the animal, which seem like they should be bad for the sloth’s chances of

survival. But Pi claims that those traits are what keep the sloth alive.

Choose an animal that you find surprisingly wise or good at survival. Write

a description of the animal, and list the characteristics it possesses that

make it a good survivor. Then, answer this question, and briefly explain

your opinions: What human characteristics does this animal have?

4. Pi describes being in a hospital in Mexico. He says that he was nauseated,

dizzy, and weak on first standing, that his levels of vitamins and minerals

were very off-balance, and that he had severe injuries and scars. He also

says that he fainted when turning on the water faucet the first time.

When you first read this part of the chapter, what was your initial reaction?

Write a journal entry describing how you felt when reading about the

physical sensations Pi experienced while in the hospital. Your reaction

could be positive, neutral, or negative.

5. Pi talks about several encounters with others that he had while in the

hospital. He states that everyone at the hospital was kind and friendly to

him, doctors and patients alike. He also says that they all wanted to spend

time with him after hearing his story. From Pi’s in depth description of

his ailments, it seems that he went through severe trauma, but Pi doesn’t

explain why he was in the hospital, which leaves the reader in suspense.

Write a few paragraphs in which you explain what you think might have

happened to Pi that would have required hospitalization. What possible

events could have led to such circumstances? What do you think the rest

of the book will reveal about Pi and his story?

Chapter 3 6. Pi describes in detail how he learned to swim. The reader learns that

Mamaji, whose passion in life was swimming, tried to teach Pi’s parents

how to swim and was unsuccessful. But Pi loved learning how to swim and

did a good job of it. Specifically, Pi says of Mamaji and his father, ―Mamaji

remembered, Fathered dreamed.‖

From Pi’s description of his family’s experiences with swimming, compare

and contrast Mamaji and the members of Pi’s family. How are they different,

and how are they the same? Make a list of similarities and differences and

then write a paragraph discussing how you think these similarities and

differences affected Pi.

Chapter 4 7. Pi argues that zoos are not necessarily bad for animals, if they are well

run and maintained. His view is that zoos provide a much more stable

environment for animals than the wild does. Pi’s belief, however, is contrary

to the viewpoint of many others. Some would argue that taking an animal

out of the wild and putting it in a cage is cruel and abusive.

Take a stand on the issue, and write an editorial for your local newspaper.

Explain in the editorial whether you think zoos are good for animals. In

addition, be sure to give evidence to support your opinion. If you have

trouble deciding how you feel about the subject, it may be helpful to first

make a list of the pros and cons of each option.

8. When Pi is explaining why zoos are good for animals, he describes the

nature of animals. He says, ―For that is what animals are, conservative, one

might even say reactionary. The smallest changes can upset them. They

want things to be just so, day after day, month after month.‖ While this is

true of animals, many human beings also fall into this category, preferring

that things stay very similar or routine.

For ten minutes, free-write about what the concepts of routine and change

mean to you and how these concepts influence the way you live.

Chapter 5 9. Pi describes how he was teased in grade school for being named Piscine.

He says that other kids laughed at him because his name sounded like a

bad word, and often, teachers would not make the effort to pronounce his

name correctly, making it sound more like an unattractive word. Pi fought

the teasing when he reached secondary school by having everyone call him

Pi.

Think of someone you know or a character in a movie, TV show, or book

who was teased about something but managed to overcome that adversity.

Write a paragraph describing the character, how the character was teased,

and how the situation was resolved.

Chapter 6 10. Chapter 6 consists of only two paragraphs that are italicized and told from

the point of view of the author, who is interviewing Pi. The first paragraph

describes Pi’s fantastic cooking and the author’s amazement with Pi’s

mastery. The second paragraph merely notes that Pi’s kitchen is stockpiled

with food enough to ―last the siege of Leningrad.‖

What is the siege of Leningrad? Look up information on this historical

event and write a paragraph or two about its importance in history.

Chapter 7 11. Pi describes one of his favorite teachers, Mr. Satish Kumar, who is a biology

teacher and an atheist. Pi provides a rather unattractive description of Mr.

Kumar, comparing him to a mountain and triangles. But, Pi also thinks that

Mr. Kumar is friendly and he feels a kinship with him. This is surprising

in light of Pi’s description of him and the fact that Mr. Kumar is an atheist,

and Pi is religious.

Have you ever felt a surprising kinship or developed an unlikely friendship

with someone? Write a paragraph describing that person and why you think

you have that kinship. If you have never experienced such a relationship,

choose someone you know or are acquainted with who is very different

from you. Describe the differences between you, and state whether you

could possibly feel a kinship or develop a friendship with this person

despite your differences.

Chapter 8 12. Pi recounts a very important lesson his father taught him when he was a

child. His father brings Pi and Ravi to the tiger’s cage so they can watch

the tiger eat a goat. The point of the lesson is to teach them how very

dangerous wild animals are, even though they are in cages, are pretty, and

seem to be friendly. Mr. Patel does not want Pi and Ravi thinking that they

can play with the wild animals.

What do you think of Mr. Patel’s method of teaching his sons the danger

of wild animals? Write a letter to Mr. Patel explaining whether you think

he was correct in teaching his sons that lesson and how you feel about his

teaching method.

Chapter 9 13. Flight distance is described here as an instinctive self-preservation response

in animals when humans get too close to them. This same response is

present in humans as well and is commonly referred to as ―personal space.‖

Every type of animal reacts differently to an invasion of its personal space

in order to reestablish its predetermined comfort zone.

Consider what your comfort zone is. Estimate at what distance someone

can be to you without crossing into your personal space. Is this distance

different if the person is a stranger or is known to you. What are your

feelings and responses when someone invades your personal space? Write

an e-mail to a hypothetical new acquaintance who crossed the line when

you met. Explain the situation, including what your flight distance is and

how you felt and responded to the encounter.

Chapters 10-11 14. Many of the beginning chapters of Life of Pi concern the nature of animals,

how zoos operate, what makes animals happy or unhappy in captivity.

Specifically, Pi explains what makes an animal want to escape, whether from

a zoo or any other location. Pi says, ―All living things contain a measure of

madness that moves them in strange, sometimes inexplicable ways. This

madness can be saving; it is part and parcel of the ability to adapt. Without

it, no species would survive.‖ This is an insightful and important comment.

Pi is making a statement about all living things, not just animals in a zoo.

Write a short essay in which you imagine yourself as an animal in the zoo.

Explain how you feel about your situation.

Chapters 13-14 15. Pi explains how the concept of territory in the animal kingdom works. He

says that a lion does not attack another creature in its territory because it

is hungry, but because the other animal is invading its territory. However,

according to Pi, an animal does not necessarily establish its dominance and

territory through brute force, but through intimidation and psychological

attacks.

Consider how such a scenario transfers to the human world. How do we

establish our territories? Write a paragraph or two describing your bedroom

or a place you feel is yours and how you have decorated or otherwise altered

it to make it your own. Then describe how you feel when a parent, sibling,

or other person comes in uninvited and tries to change your ―territory.‖

16. In Chapters 13 and 14, Pi describes how a lion trainer uses intimidation

as a training tool and how the other lions perceive the trainer as the alpha

lion, or the leader. Pi explains that the weakest lion, or omega lion, is the

one that is most likely to be subservient and loyal to the trainer.

Explain this idea to a classmate who cannot quite understand what Pi

means about alphas and omegas on how that relates to dominance and

submission.

Chapter 15 17. Martel describes the many religious artifacts found in Pi’s house, and remarks

that, ―his house is a temple.‖ Pi has prayer rugs, crucifixes, the statue of

Ganesha, and others in his home. Martel also notes that these religious

artifacts appear everywhere in the house—in the kitchen, in cupboards, in

Pi’s bedroom, etc.

Make a list of ten of the most important items you possess. Choose one of

them and explain why it is significant to you.

Chapter 16 18. Pi says he is a Hindu primarily because of the ritual and the sensory objects

of the faith. He remembers the ―sculptured cones of red kumkum powder,‖

the ―garlands of flowers,‖ and ―the clanging of bells to announce one’s

arrival to God.‖ Pi also says that what the rite and ritual stand for are

important to him as well and are the essence of Hinduism, but the many

sights, sounds, and smells of the ritual are what intoxicate him with the

religion.

How important do you think the rituals of a religion are to a follower’s

faith? Regardless of the religion, do you think that ritual is as Pi says it is?

Write a short essay explaining your thoughts on rituals in religion. Feel

free to draw on personal experiences or other experiences you’ve read or

heard about.

Chapter 17 19. Pi describes a trip he and his family take to Munnar, a ―small hill station‖

with a high tea estate, which is where Pi first became a Christian. Pi and his

family are tourists in Munnar. They visit a tea factory, take a boat trip on

the lake, and feed wild goats. All of these are pleasant activities for a family

on vacation, and Pi seems to enjoy them.

Write a poem of at least 12 lines in whatever verse form you choose about

your favorite travel experience. Make sure to incorporate important details,

like where you were and why you liked it so much.

20. Later in Chapter 17, Pi relates his discussions with Father Martin about

Christianity and Jesus. Initially, Pi cannot comprehend why people are

Christians or why Jesus’ sacrifice saved the souls of his followers. Pi

describes his thought processes and his irritation with the whole situation.

He even seems angry with Christianity and Jesus, especially about the story

of the fig tree. He says, ―I couldn’t get Him out of my head. Still can’t. I

spent three solid days thinking about Him. The more He bothered me,

the less I could forget Him. And the more I learned about Him, the less I

wanted to leave Him.‖

Have you ever been in a situation, like Pi, where initially you didn’t like

something or someone, but the more you tried not to think about it, the

more you couldn’t stop thinking about it? It could have been a song, book,

TV show, person, etc. Write a narrative describing this experience, and

explain how you progressed from initial dislike to more positive feelings.

Chapters 18-19 21. Pi describes his discovery of Islam and his participation in the prayer ritual.

Essentially, Pi learns about Islam through questioning a member of that

faith. When he first comes across the Mosque, he is particularly hesitant to

enter because he had heard only bad things about the religion. But when the

bread maker is kind to him, Pi feels more at ease and asks him questions. In

this situation, Pi learns best through questioning.

What is the most effective learning style for you? Write a letter to a teacher

(past or present) describing a lesson where you felt you really understood

and learned the material. Make sure you include details about how the

lesson was presented, and explain why that method was more effective

than others.

Chapter 20 22. By the end of Chapter 20, the reader has learned how Pi became a Hindu,

a Christian, and a Muslim. Generally speaking, these three religions

are mutually exclusive and do not hold the same beliefs as each other.

Therefore, it is rare to find someone who practices all three. In fact, Pi faces.

some adversity for subscribing to all three religions and has to fight to be

allowed to practice them. But all are important to him, and he is extremely

dedicated to them.

Have you ever felt some kind of allegiance to conflicting groups? Whether

it was groups of friends, school clubs, family members, etc., how did you

feel when you found yourself committed to more than one? Write a journal

entry about the groups you felt connected to and why they conflicted with

each other.

Chapter 21

23. Chapter 21 is told from the author’s point of view. In this chapter, Martel

says he has just spent the entire afternoon with Pi and is now at a café.

Martel records what he is feeling after visiting with Pi and how Pi’s words

have affected him.

Think about what you’ve read so far and how the intermittent change from

Pi’s perspective to Martel’s affects you as a reader. Does the change in point

of view help you better understand Pi and his life, or does it make the story

confusing? Write an e-mail to a friend explaining your opinion about the

chapters that have been told from the author’s point of view and how they

contribute to your overall interpretation of the book.

Chapter 23 24. Pi describes what happens when his parents find out he has been practicing

three religions. He points out that all teenagers keep secrets from their

parents. Judging from the tone in which he introduces this topic, it’s fair to

say that he felt embarrassed about his secret and uncomfortable when his

parents found out.

Imagine that you have been keeping an important secret from an adult,

and your secret has been revealed. Do not describe the secret. Make a list

of the ways in which you think you would react (e.g., embarrassed, angry,

relieved, etc.) Then make a list of the ways in which you think the other

person would react. Taking into consideration the person’s personality and

your relationship with him or her, write a brief description about how the

situation might be handled.

Chapter 24 25. Ravi teases Pi about the three religions Pi follows. He calls Pi ―Swami Jesus‖

and asks him if he’s going to Rome or Mecca. Ravi’s teasing comes in the

form of mockery, and Pi is hurt by it, but appears to let it roll off his back.

Being teased and mocked by siblings is a common occurrence and can often

have a lasting impact on the person being teased. Think about what longterm

effects can result from this kind of treatment. Have you or someone

you know ever been teased or mocked by a sibling? Write an e-mail to the

person who did the teasing, explaining how that kind of behavior can affect

someone.

Chapter 26 26. Pi asks his parents to be baptized in the Christian faith, and he asks them

for a prayer rug. His father’s response, after telling Pi he can practice only

one faith, is to tell Pi to ask his mother. His mother first tries to distract him

from the question and then talk him out of it. By the end of the chapter,

however, Pi has won the argument; his mother tells him he can follow both

religions.

What do you think Pi’s conversation and debate with his parents meant to

him? Imagine you are in his place and have discovered something you truly

care about, but which your parents do not understand. Write a short essay

from Pi’s perspective about how important this particular dialogue with

his parents was to him and how he must have felt working up the nerve to

bring up the subject, fully knowing their opinions.

Chapter 28 27. Pi describes the prayer rug that he convinced his parents to let him have.

He explains that he was very attached to the rug, even loved it. He says that

he felt particularly connected to the patch of ground under the rug because

―it helped me remember that the earth is the creation of God and sacred the

same all over.‖

Why do you think we feel a special attachment to certain objects or places?

Write a list of objects or places that you are particularly attached to. Next

to each item, write a brief explanation of why it is special to you.

Chapter 29 28. In Chapter 29, Pi talks about his parents’ decision to move the family to

Canada. He begins the chapter by questioning why people move and what

benefits can come of it. Specifically, he asks, ―Why enter this jungle of

foreignness where everything is new, strange and difficult?‖

Why do you think Pi chooses to use the metaphor of a jungle to describe

this situation? Why is it a particularly good metaphor for his life? Write

a paragraph or two explaining why the phrase ―jungle of foreignness‖ is

meaningful for Pi in the context of his life. Use information from the text

to support your answer.

29. At the end of Chapter 29, Pi expands on his feeling about moving to Canada:

He is totally astonished about the news. To him, Canada feels too far away

to even imagine. He had never even thought about what Canada was like,

let alone how it would be to live there.

Divide your paper in half. On the left side, write down the name of a place

that seems foreign to you. On the right side, write down the name of where

you currently live. You can be as specific as your town or as general as

the United States. Imagine that you must move to the foreign place. In

each column, list the characteristics (both positive and negative) of where

you currently live and those that you perceive the foreign county to have.

Look at both lists, and tally the similarities and the differences. Then state

whether there are enough similarities to ease your concerns about moving

to that place.

Chapter 31 30. Pi describes the time that his teachers (both named Mr. Kumar) meet

each other at the zoo. One had taught Pi about Islam, and the other is Pi’s

favorite teacher. Even though they share the same name, they are two very

different people with very different beliefs. At one point, the teachers and

Pi are at the zebra display, feeding a zebra a carrot. Despite their differences,

the teachers enjoy sharing the experience of feeding the zebra. They have

found a neutral or common ground in which they can interact peacefully.

There are many situations in which people who are normally in opposition

to each other can find a neutral place or common interest that momentarily

provides an opportunity for interaction without conflict. Think of two such

people or groups, and write an editorial to your school newspaper giving

your opinion about what would unify these groups, if only for a brief time.

Be sure to explain the reasons for your opinion.

Chapter 33 31. Chapter 33 is another chapter told from Martel’s perspective. Martel

describes four photographs that represent the entirety of Pi’s childhood.

One is of several men at the zoo, another is of a group of children at the zoo,

one is of Pi’s school, and one is of the Aurobindo Ashram swimming pool.

Pi identifies Richard Parker as being in the picture of the school children.

When you read this passage, who did you imagine Richard Parker to be?

Richard Parker had been mentioned several times leading up to this chapter,

but here the author finds actual evidence of Richard Parker’s existence.

Based on what you know from the story so far, write whom you think

Richard Parker is and what role he plays in Pi’s life.

Chapter 34 32. Pi begins detailing his journey to Canada. He tells the reader that his family

sold the zoo, packed up the animals, and planned to ―sail like Columbus‖ to

Canada. But Pi says that he and his brother felt like they were two animals

being shipped, unwillingly, to Canada. They were not looking forward to

the freezing winters and lack of cricket, their favorite sport. Their parents,

however, were convinced that moving to Canada was the right thing to do

and would benefit everyone in the long run.

Has anyone ever wanted you to do something you really did not want to

do, and rationalized it by saying it was in your best interest? Write a journal

entry describing what you were asked or told to do and why you didn’t

want to do it. Include a brief explanation of how the situation was resolved

and if it worked out for the best.

Chapter 35 33. Pi describes his mother’s actions as the family prepares to leave for Canada.

She is wearing her best sari, or dress, and her hair is arranged beautifully.

His mother asks if she should buy some cigarettes in India before leaving.

Pi’s father replies that Canada will have cigarettes and that they don’t smoke,

so why would they buy cigarettes?

Why do you think Pi’s mother wanted to buy cigarettes in India before

leaving for Canada, even though she didn’t smoke? Write a letter to Pi’s

father explaining the mother’s feelings about leaving and why she would

want to buy cigarettes to bring to Canada.

Chapter 36 34. In this chapter, Martel describes Pi’s son and daughter and their pets. By

all appearances, Pi’s family is comfortable and happy. The author ends the

chapter with the sentence, ―This story has a happy ending.‖

Why do you think it is important at this point in the book for the author to

explicitly state that the story will end happily? Free-write for 10 minutes

on your reaction to this sentence, placed where it is, and what you think it

suggests will happen later in the book.

Chapters 37-38 35. Pi describes the sinking of the Tsimtsum. He provides details, such as how

it sounded like a ―monstrous metallic burp,‖ and how ―everything was

screaming: the sea, the wind, my heart.‖ The vivid description of the events

in this chapter (from Pi’s point of view) gives the reader a clear image of the

action and Pi’s thoughts and feelings.

Write an account of a dramatic event, either real or fictional. Tell the story

from your point of view. Use as much descriptive language as you can to

create strong images of the action and to convey your thoughts, feelings,

and sensory perceptions to the reader. Your account should be at least a

half a page in length.

36. Pi describes being on the lifeboat in the storm, praying to all the gods he

worships that Richard Parker would get on board. He throws him the life

raft and helps get him close to the boat. But while helping him aboard, Pi

suddenly starts praying that Richard Parker won’t make it. Pi then reveals

that Richard Parker is, in fact, an adult Bengal tiger, one of the fiercest

predators on earth.

What was your initial reaction upon learning that the Richard Parker,

who has been discussed throughout the book, is actually a tiger? Does

this revelation make the previous references to Richard Parker clearer, or

more confusing? Take ten minutes to free-write your thoughts on these

questions.

Chapter 41 37. Pi debates whether or not Richard Parker can pop through the tarpaulin.

Pi explains that his fear has one answer (yes, the tiger could easily get

through to him), while reason tells him another answer (no, he could not

just jump through). In the face of possible doom, Pi has to make a decision

about whether to listen to fear or to reason. He chooses reason because it is

the only solution that allows him to live; he gets on board the boat and is

not attacked by Richard Parker.

How important do you think it was that Pi listen to reason rather than

fear? Imagine you were in the same situation as Pi. In a paragraph or two,

explain what you would have chosen to do, and why.

Chapter 43 38. Pi finds himself surrounded by quite a menagerie. He is on a small lifeboat

with a tiger, a hyena, a wounded zebra, and an orangutan. The lifeboat

becomes an unusual ecosystem with bizarre animal interactions.

If you were to be on a lifeboat for an extended period of time with no

human companions, what animals would you want on board with you?

Write a journal entry about the animals you chose, and explain your

decision. Compare the animals’ characteristics with those of the animals

with Pi. How are they similar? How are they different?

39. Pi describes the behaviors and physical traits of the hyena. Pi states that the

hyena is grossly ugly, disproportionate, and looks like it has mange, a skin

disease found in animals. Overall, the hyena is a bizarre and displeasing

looking animal.

What is the most bizarre looking animal you have ever seen or heard of?

Research that animal using the Internet or any other resource, and write a

short report on the appearance and behaviors of that animal.

Chapter 44 40. As night approaches, Pi’s anxiety intensifies. In the darkness, he becomes

fearful of what he cannot see. He can no longer see the lifeboat or even his

own body in the starless night. This causes Pi to lose the minimal sense of

security he had during the day, and he feels exposed and vulnerable.

Most of us have felt anxiety, insecurity, isolation, and/or fear at some time.

Think of a time when you have experienced one or more of these feelings,

and write a poem (in any form) of at least 12 lines about that experience. If

you are uncomfortable writing about a personal experience, write a poem

from Pi’s point of view that expresses his thoughts and feelings on his first

night.

Chapter 45

41. Pi describes Orange Juice, the orangutan, and how she is behaving on

the boat. According to Pi, Orange Juice is immensely seasick, slouching,

panting, and almost fainting. This image of Orange Juice makes Pi laugh

out loud because it seems ridiculous. Pi explains that Orange Juice’s plight

is humorous because she looks so humanly sick and that when animals

exhibit human traits, people often find it amusing.

Conversely, humans sometimes exhibit animal behavior. Consider the ways

in which people can behave like or exhibit characteristics of animals. Then,

write a brief description of one of these examples, and give your opinion

about whether or not you find it amusing. Be sure to explain the reasons

for your opinion.

Chapter 46 42. This chapter details the horrific, violent death of the wounded zebra. When

the zebra dies, Pi acknowledges that everyone in his family has died, too.

Something about the death of the zebra causes Pi to face the reality of his

family’s fate, and he finally allows himself to grieve his loss.

Create a dialogue in which you ask Pi questions about the death of his

family and that of the zebra. The objective of your questioning should be

to gain some insight as to what made Pi connect his family and the zebra.

As Pi, provide answers to you your questions.

Chapter 47 43. Here, the reader learns of Orange Juice’s background. Pi explains that

Orange Juice was an abandoned pet who faced the same fate as many

abandoned pets: Once people realize that their exotic pet will not behave

or be house-trained, they dump the animal in the jungle, where it dies from

any number of causes. Pi draws parallels to humans in this explanation and

throughout the chapter. In doing so, he reinforces the concept that animals

and humans are alike in some ways, including instincts, emotions, and the

will to survive.

Based on that concept, Pi believes that Orange Juice doesn’t have a chance

of surviving the hyena’s attack because she is more passive than the hyena

and lacks the skills needed to defend herself. He is surprised and somewhat

hopeful when Orange Juice puts up a fight and feels defeated when the

hyena finally kills her.

In addition to the parallels Pi draws between animals and humans, he

provides clues about how he and Orange Juice are alike. Review the chapter,

and write down as many similarities between Pi and Orange Juice as you

can identify.

44. At the end of chapter 47, Pi recounts Orange Juice’s death. He describes how

close he and Orange Juice were and how he felt he knew her exceptionally

well.

Use the information Pi has provided about Orange Juice to write eulogy

for her. A eulogy is a written tribute to someone who has died. Be sure

to include specific details about Orange Juice’s life, her personality, and

her relationship with Pi. You may use your imagination to expand on the

information you already have.

Chapter 48 45. In this chapter, Pi explains the origin of Richard Parker’s name. Richard

Parker is a strange name for a tiger, and this creates some confusion early

in the book. Pi tells the reader that Richard Parker’s name is the result of

a clerical error; the man who caught the tiger was named Richard Parker,

and he wanted to name the tiger Thirsty. Somehow the paperwork was not

filled out properly, and the name Richard Parker was assigned to the tiger.

Pi makes brief references to Richard Parker earlier in the novel but does

not provide enough information to form an image of him. Based on his

name, the reader is led to conclude that Richard Parker is human and male.

He seems to have been an important part of Pi’s life at one time, but he

abandoned Pi without remorse.

Sometimes we associate names with certain personality traits or physical

features. A name can also bring to mind an image of a particular person, or

even an animal, if the animal was given a traditionally human name (e.g.,

―Jake‖). Make a list of at least five first names. Then, list some famous

people with that name. What qualities, physical features, or images do they

have in common.

Chapter 51 46. Pi finally takes stock of what supplies are on the boat. It has taken him

a long time to do so because he has been incredibly weak and has had to

worry about the predators on board with him. When he is able to see what

emergency rations are in the locker of the lifeboat, Pi is overjoyed at the

material goods and man-made items that are stored there. He says that

no gift at any gift-giving holiday could have been more appreciated. Pi is

amazed at what effect material items have on his happiness and wellbeing.

What was the best present you ever received? Write a description of the

object as well as an explanation of why you like it so much.

Chapter 52 47. Pi creates a bulleted list of all the items in the locker. The list includes such

things as cans of water, biscuits, blankets, bailing cups, etc.

Take a close look at the list. If you’re not sure what any of the items are, you

can ask your teacher or look it up on the Internet. Decide which one item

you think will be most useful to Pi in his current situation. Describe the

item and why you think it will be so helpful. Be sure to make a good case

to support your opinion.

Chapter 55 48. Pi has decided to pick plan number six, the war of attrition. He plans to

wait out Richard Parker and let him die of natural causes, which would be

the least dangerous and stressful. After he thinks about his plan for awhile,

his reason kicks in once more, and Pi realizes that plan number six will

lead to almost certain death, because Richard Parker is stronger and more

adaptable than Pi.

Write an e-mail to Pi telling him which plan you think is best and explain

to him how it compares with his choice. If you picked plan number six, as

Pi did, tell him whether you agree or disagree with his conclusion that plan

number six is the worst choice and why you feel the way you do.

Chapter 56 49. Fear is something we all experience at one time or another. It is an emotion

that has the power to change our lives. How we handle our fear and the

decisions we make in the face of it can hold us back or propel us forward

in life. Pi explains why fear can be such a destructive emotion.

Consider Pi’s situation and the extent of his fear. You may be able to relate

to some of his responses. Think about any situation in what you’ve felt fear

and conquered it. Write a letter to Pi giving him advice on what you think

he can do to overcome his fear.

Chapter 57 50. Pi lets the reader in on a secret: he survived his ordeal only because of

Richard Parker. Such a claim seems ridiculous because to be trapped on a

small boat with a predator would be absolutely terrifying. But Pi says that

if Richard Parker had died, he would have been left alone with his despair,

which is the worst fate a person can face. Richard Parker was able to distract

Pi from the awful reality and give him a reason to keep on living.

From what Pi has told us about the nature of the hyena, do you think Pi

would have felt the same way if the hyena had lived and Richard Parker

had not? Would living on a lifeboat with a hyena, rather than a Bengal tiger,

have changed the way Pi felt and, therefore, also change the outcome of the

story? Write a dialogue in which you tell a friend what would have changed

or stayed the same if the hyena had lived and Richard Parker had not.

You could begin like this:

Friend: I’d sure have trouble choosing to be with a hyena or a tiger.

You: My choice is easy. I’d pick…

Chapter 60 51. In this chapter, Pi describes a time when he woke up suddenly in the night

and was awed by the magnificent sky and stars. He is almost overwhelmed

by the vastness of the sea and sky. He says of this experience, ―I noticed…

that my suffering was taking place in a grand setting. I saw my suffering for

what it was, finite and insignificant, and I was still.‖ Pi’s observation provides

him with an opportunity to look at his life from a different perspective.

On the Internet or other source, find at least five images of places that

appear to be so vast or magnificent that they are overwhelming. Make a list

of the places you find. Next to each item, write a short description of the

place, what you felt when you looked at the image, and why you think that

image evoked those reactions.

Chapter 61

52. Pi relates his first experience with fishing. The first problem he encounters

is finding something for bait. After several unsuccessful attempts with

parts of his shoe, Pi is lucky enough to run into a school of flying fish; they

essentially throw themselves onto the boat to be used as bait. But now Pi

faces a dilemma; he must kill a fish to make it into bait. This task, because

Pi is a vegetarian and a lover of all living beings, is very difficult for him.

He says, ―It was the first sentient being I had ever killed. I was now a killer.

I was now as guilty as Cain.‖ Explain who Cain is.

Do you agree that Pi’s actions make him a killer? Does this change your view

of him? Write an editorial for your school paper explaining the situation Pi

faced and whether or not you think he is guilty of being a killer. Make sure

you clearly explain the reasons for your opinion.

Chapter 63 53. In Chapter 63, Pi tells the reader just how long he’s been at sea; it’s longer

than any other castaway he has ever heard of. The many days and nights Pi

was stuck in a lifeboat with a tiger must have been long and hard. In this

same chapter, Pi presents to the reader his daily schedule—what he does

with each segment of the day.

Looking at Pi’s daily schedule, what do you think was the most important

part of his day? Make a list of Pi’s daily activities. Then, write a paragraph

about the one or two things he does most often and why you think he does

them so much.

Chapters 65-66 54. Pi explains his lack of useful knowledge of seafaring. The survival manual

is, according to Pi, not helpful at all because his ―marine knowledge was

strictly limited to what lived in the sea and did not extend to what cruised

on top of it.‖

What knowledge do you have about the sea or marine life? Pick one aspect

of the sea (a type of fish, how navigation works, aquatic mammals, sailing,

etc.) that you know something about or are interested in. Research it further

online or in your school’s library. Then, write a three-minute speech that

you could give to your class about your topic.

55. After explaining that he could not figure out how to navigate, Pi writes,

―so I drifted. Winds and currents decided where I went.‖ Pi is literally and

figuratively lost at sea. He has no control of where he goes or what his

destiny might be.

How would you feel if you, like Pi, had no control over where you traveled

and had to trust in chance or fate that you would be okay? Imagine that

you are on the raft with Pi and are not able to navigate. Write a dialogue

between you and Pi. What would you say, how would he react, and how

would you resolve the dilemma?

Chapter 67 56. Pi talks about the barnacle village that lives under his raft. He enjoys eating

them, and they make good bait. But more importantly, he enjoys spending

time observing them and being distracted by them. They are almost like

little pets.

Have you or a friend ever had little pets (such as sea monkeys, hermit

crabs, hamsters, an ant farm, etc.)? Write a newspaper editorial about the

benefits of having such little pets and why they are or are not better than

larger pets, such as dogs or cats, or having no pets at all.

Chapter 70

57. By Chapter 70, Pi is an avid lover of eating turtles. He describes in detail how

he catches and kills turtles and how he eats them. Pi seems to even relish

his ability to catch and eat the turtles and all the benefits they provide.

How has Pi changed from the vegetarian boy of Chapter 61, who was

squeamish about killing a fish, to the turtle hunter of this chapter? Write

a compare/contrast essay of the old Pi and the new Pi. Be sure to take

into consideration both his religious views and his unusual and dire

circumstances. Then, conclude whether you think the change in Pi is

excusable or not.

As an alternative to this activity, you could write a few paragraphs

explaining your views or how different circumstances can change people’s

behavior, beliefs, and actions. For example, you might be against capital

punishment, but if a friend of yours were killed, your opinions might

change drastically.

Chapter 71

58. Pi writes Chapter 71 as a guidebook to taming animals. He even starts the

chapter with, ―To those who should ever find themselves in a predicament

such as I was in, I would recommend the following program….‖ He then

gives a list of steps that he employed for taming Richard Parker and which

were, presumably, successful. This chapter, however, has a very different

tone than the ones that came before it, which were more story-like rather

than a suggested list.

How does this change in tone affect how you read the book? Were you

surprised by the change? Did you enjoy it or were you put off by it? Write

a letter to the author, telling him your opinion of this change in tone.

Chapter 72 59. In addition to creating a list of training techniques, Pi makes a shield out

of a turtle shell to protect him from the 450-pound tiger. The first time he

approaches Richard Parker with the turtle shell shield, the tiger merely

knocks him down and into the water. The second time, Pi makes a shield

out of a smaller and lighter turtle, which works better.

Pi uses his knowledge of tigers and his observations of Richard Parker’s

actions to develop a strategy to protect himself. Observing and becoming

familiar with an opponent’s behavioral patterns is a technique that can help

us defend ourselves against or conquer others in a competitive situation.

Write a paragraph describing a competitive situation. It can be a sporting

event, a video game, or any type of competitive circumstance. The situation

does not need to be one that you have personally experienced. Then, write

a paragraph describing what kind of knowledge you would try to acquire

to gain an advantage over your opponent.

Chapter 73 60. Pi states that the one item he truly wanted to have while on the lifeboat was

a book to read. Instead, all he had was the survival manual, and paper and

a pen, with which he kept a diary.

If you were lost at sea for as long as Pi was, what is the one item you would

want with you? Write a diary entry in which you identify the item, and

explain why it is the one thing you would want with you.

Chapter 77 61. As Pi’s supply of sea rations begins to run out, he allows himself only small

portions at long intervals to conserve what he has left. The amount of food

he allows himself is not enough to fill him, and he is constantly hungry.

This state prompts Pi to envision the kinds of food he longs to eat.

Pi realizes that he will starve to death is he does not actively seek out other

sources of nutrition. He discovers that any part of a fish or turtle can be

utilized, either for food or useful items. Although Pi is a vegetarian, the

need to survive forces him to eat and do things he never would before.

Imagine that you are in a situation similar to Pi’s. You are isolated from

civilization and facing starvation. What foods would you fantasize about?

What natural resources, such as plants, animals, insects, etc., would you

eat, even though they are disgusting to you or seem to be inedible? Make

a list for each of these questions. You do not need to limit yourself to

natural resources from any particular place; you may include any natural

resource.

Chapter 78 62. Pi describes the changing of the sea, sky, winds, and everything in between.

The second paragraph of the chapter, which begins with ―there were many

seas,‖ is particularly enlightening about Pi’s experience. In it, he states that

the sea sounded like many different and conflicting things.

Review this paragraph. Read it in the context of the rest of the chapter and

by itself. What effect does this paragraph have on your perception of Pi’s

adventure? Write a short essay explaining why the paragraph about the

many sounds of the sea is appropriate for Pi to have written and how the

many sounds of the sea affected his journey and his state of mind.

Chapter 79 63. At one point in Chapter 79, Pi describes an ―epic battle‖ between Richard

Parker and a mako shark, which had been swimming near the boat. Pi,

unthinkingly, grabbed it by the tail and pulled it out of the water. When

he realized that what he was doing was foolish, he threw the shark toward

Richard Parker’s end of the boat. The two then fought until Richard Parker

had killed the shark, but not without some injury to himself.

What was the best competition you ever saw, either in person or on

television? Maybe it was even something you participated in. Describe the

atmosphere of the competition and its outcome.

Chapters 80-82 64. After discussing the fact that he was able to control Richard Parker partly

because he provided him with food and water, and then discussing his

own eating habits, Pi makes a distressing observation about himself. He

says that he had begun to eat like an animal, and that was an indication of

how low he had sunk. Pi describes and discusses his eating habits often in

his narrative. Since it disturbs him to realize that he has begun to eat like

an animal, he must feel like he has lost a part of himself that makes him

human.

Divide a piece of paper into two columns. In the first column, list some

behaviors that are characteristic of humans. In the second column, list how

those characteristics have changed in Pi, and how they make him more

animal-like as his situation deteriorates. Use eating habits as an example.

Chapter 83 65. After the terrifying and destructive storm, Pi surveys the damage done to

his lifeboat. His raft is completely gone, and this loss is very depressing.

He is particularly sad at the loss of his town of barnacles. He equates

the effect of seeing all this to ―…the last standing beam of a burnt-down

house would have on a householder.‖ When someone experiences a loss

of this magnitude, the material and emotional damage it causes can be

devastating.

Write an essay about what the loss of the raft and everything on it means to

Pi. Include information from the story to support your response.

Chapter 84 66. Pi talks about the variety of birds he sees. He saw an albatross twice and

found it ―supernatural and incomprehensible.‖ The albatross is an odd

looking bird with many mythical and mysterious associations around it.

Research the albatross online or in your school’s library. Then, write a

report about the bird itself and its cultural associations of mystery, omen,

and death.

Chapter 86 67. Pi sights a ship and is almost rescued. His excitement at seeing the ship is

almost overwhelming. The crew of the ship, however, does not see him,

and he is not rescued as he thought and hoped he would be.

Rewrite a few paragraphs from this chapter as if the crew of the oil tanker

spots and rescues Pi. Be sure to give the members of the crew names and

dialogue, and discuss how they handle Richard Parker. Add whatever other

details you think are necessary.

Chapters 90-91 68. Pi loses his vision. First he notices that Richard Parker’s vision is failing.

Then his, too, slowly disappears until everything eventually goes black.

Make a list of each of the senses: sight, hearing, smell, touch, taste. Next to

each sense, write down the disadvantages of being without it. Then, write

down which sense you wouldn’t want to be without the most and why.

69. Pi, while still blind, has an imagined conversation with Richard Parker.

After talking with him for quite some time, Pi notices that Richard Parker

has a French accent, and he finds this surprising. Pi questions why Richard

Parker would speak as though he was from France considering that he was

from Bangladesh, which is not a French-speaking country.

Why do you think in Pi’s mind that Richard Parker would have a French

accent? Write an analysis of why you think Pi would give the tiger a French

accent. How would the conversation or Pi’s characterization of Richard

Parker change if he gave him a different accent, or no accent at all?

Chapter 92 70. Pi describes his adventures on the man-eating island. He claims to have

come across a floating island made of algae and trees that is inhabited by

many meerkats who feed on dead fish that rise up in wells. Pi also says that

at night the algae changes so that it burns his flesh and that he finds human

teeth in one of the trees on the island.

Pi’s account of the island is pretty fantastic. How believable to you find Pi’s

story about the island? Review Chapter 92. Then make a list of the things

about the island you find believable and a list of the things you do not

believe. Then write one to two paragraphs explaining whether or not Pi’s

story has convinced you of its truth, and why.

Chapter 94 71. Pi has landed safely in Mexico after a remarkable amount of time at sea. As

soon as his boat hits land, Richard Parker leaps off the boat and runs away,

never to be seen again. As Pi says, ―he didn’t look at me.‖ Pi is particularly

distressed at Richard Parker’s unceremonious way of leaving because of

how dependent Pi had become on the tiger for survival and vice versa.

How would you have felt if you had been in Pi’s position? Would you

have been as upset when Richard Parker left, or would you have been

overwhelmed with other emotions? Write a letter to an advice columnist,

telling him or her what your feelings would have been and what Pi’s were.

Ask the columnist which set of feelings is more normal or healthier. Then,

write a response based on what you think the columnist would say.

Chapter 95 72. The last few chapters of the book are again told from the point of view of

the author. Much of the final chapters are transcripts of interviews between

Pi and two representatives of the Maritime Department in the Japanese

Ministry of Transport. The last section has a very different feeling than the

chapters narrated by Pi.

Write an essay explaining your reaction when you started reading the third

section and realized that Pi was no longer narrating the story. How did you

feel when Pi was no longer the main storyteller, and why? How would you

have Pi tell the story of his interview with the two men?

Chapters 96-99

73. Pi tells the two men interviewing him two different stories about his ordeal:

the one that is told in the novel and one in which the animals are replaced

by people. Pi tells the men the second story because they do not believe the

first one. The second story is much more disturbing and upsetting because

people behave like animals; however the second one is more believable

because of the people. At the end of Chapter 99, Pi asks the men which

story is the better one, and they answer that the one with the animals is

better.

Make up a third story that Pi could have told the men. Your story should

be about a page long.

Wrap-Up 74. By the end of the story, the reader has received a great deal of information

on a variety of subjects. Through Pi, the reader learns about three different

religions, zoo keeping and the characteristics and behaviors of many

different animals, how to tame a lion, and survival techniques.

Choose one of the lessons above that you feel is the most important,

and write a letter to the author that explains why you believe it is more

important than the others. You may also choose a subject addressed in the

story, but is not listed here. In your letter, explain how you plan to use that

lesson in your own life.

75. The end of Life of Pi shows that the investigators do not totally believe Pi’s

story. There are many other possible ways of ending the novel, however. A

different ending could completely change the final tone of the story, as well

as the outcome.

Think about how you would want the story to end. Then write an alternate

ending that conveys your idea. Provide as much detail as you can.

for Educators only – At Least 50% Off! New titles are constantly being added; call or visit our Bill To: ■Home ■School

Order Form