The Teacher's Funeral

Russell uses many unflattering images to describe school. It is a “jailhouse,” and a “trough of learning.” Why does Russell dislike school so much? Why does he change his mind about education by the end of the novel?

Each of Tansy’s pupils learns differently and shows gifts in different ways. Pick three of Tansy’s pupils and, using support from the text, describe their unique intelligences.

Unlike other girls her age in Sycamore Township, Tansy takes on a paid, professional role as teacher. Consider the other adult female characters in the book. How are they similar to Tansy? How are they different? Do you think Tansy reflects the changing times? Why or why not?

Russell plans to run away to the Dakotas but changes his mind. Which characters influence Russell to stay home? Explain how each one contributes to Russell’s change of heart.

Richard Peck is known for his skill at writing humorous novels, and The Teacher’s Funeral has many laugh-out-loud scenes. Which scene did you find funniest? What literary techniques does Peck use to make the scene humorous? Give examples.

At the time of the novel, what 20th-century changes have come to Parke County, Indiana? How have these changes affected the community? How do different characters feel about those changes?

Both Russell and Tansy undergo personal transformations on their journey to adulthood. Describe how each character changes over of the course of the novel. What do they learn about themselves? About their family? Support your answer.

What do you think Tansy means when she urges Russell to stop being her little brother and instead be Lloyd’s older brother? Has Russell been a good older brother to Lloyd? Russell complains that Lloyd does not look up to him. Why do you think Lloyd does not think of Russell as a role model?