The Book in the Shadows - Author's Point of View and Perspective (Grade 7)

What does Warren say the mysterious book offers?

• Stories of heroes and helpers

• Guidance of a dark and selfish kind

• A way to understand the shadows

• Knowledge that is a gift

Answer explanation

This is stated directly in the passage when Warren warns Nathan, 'It offers guidance, but of a dark and selfish kind.'

From Nathan's point of view, what makes the book so appealing?

• His uncle recommended it to him.

• It is mysterious and different from the other books.

• It is located on a high, hard-to-reach shelf.

• It has a shiny, gold title on its spine.

Answer explanation

The passage describes the book as having 'no title' and feeling 'strangely cold,' which makes it stand out. Nathan's question, 'Why? It looks interesting,' shows his curiosity about its mysterious nature.

According to Warren, what does a true mentor do?

• Lets you discover things on your own

• Keeps secrets about the past

• Guides you toward light

• Tells you which books are boring

Answer explanation

Warren explicitly states his point of view on mentorship: 'A true mentor guides you toward light, not deeper into the shadows.'

How does the author show the contrast between Nathan's and Warren's points of view?

• By having them argue loudly in the library.

• By describing Nathan as brave and Warren as cowardly.

• By showing that Nathan is excited while Warren is sad.

• By contrasting Nathan's curiosity with Warren's cautious warnings.

Answer explanation

The author develops two different viewpoints. Nathan is curious ('It looks interesting'), while Warren is cautious and protective ('I would leave that one alone'). This contrast creates the story's tension.

At the end of the passage, why does Nathan pull his hand back from the book?

• He sees a deep sadness in his uncle's eyes.

• The book suddenly feels hot to the touch.

• He decides he wants to read a hero story instead.

• He gets scared of the shadows in the library.

Answer explanation

The passage states, 'But there was a deep sadness in Warren’s eyes that made him pause. Reluctantly, he pulled his hand back.' This detail from Warren's point of view influences Nathan's decision.

Match the character's dialogue or description to the feeling or intention it reveals.

• Expresses youthful curiosity

• His face looking tired.

• Hints at a heavy burden or past

• He felt a strong pull of disappointment.

• Reveals a feeling of being let down

• “Why? It looks interesting.”

• Shows a protective warning

• “I would leave that one alone, Nathan.”

Answer explanation

Each option is matched with the perspective it reveals. Nathan's question shows his curiosity. Warren's first line is a clear warning. Nathan's internal thought expresses his disappointment. The description of Warren's face hints at a deeper, unspoken reason for his caution, revealing his perspective.

Sort the following phrases and descriptions from the story into the character point of view they represent.

Groups:

(a) Nathan's Point of View (Curiosity and Emotion)

,

(b) Warren's Point of View (Guidance and Warning)

• Wanted to know the book's secret

• A true mentor guides you toward light

• Some things are best left undiscovered

• Felt a strong pull of disappointment

• Felt a thrill of fear and excitement

• The book holds echoes of poor choices

Answer explanation

The items are sorted based on which character's feelings, thoughts, or words they describe. The first category includes phrases that show Nathan's youthful curiosity and emotional reactions. The second category includes the direct advice and warnings that come from Warren's protective, mentor-like perspective.

Compare Nathan's point of view about the mysterious book with Warren's point of view. How does the author use their different perspectives to create moral tension (a feeling of uncertainty about what is right or wrong)? Support your answer with details from the passage.

Answer explanation