Book Club 6th-7th grade: Gentle Ben by Walt Morey

Coordinator:  Jennifer Ochoa

Grades: 6th-7th grade

Book: Gentle Ben by Walt Morey

For questions and comments, please use this forum: https://www.thehomeschoolcouncil.org/forum/book-club

Book Description:

The Alaskan wilderness is a lonely place for Mark Andersen, especially after the death of his older brother, Jamie. But in time Mark finds someone else to love--Ben, an Alaskan brown bear so huge that no one else dares come near him. Gentle Ben has been a favorite of readers of all ages for 25 years, and is a timeless story of a rare friendship. An ALA Notable Book.

Disclaimers about book’s content: no

Discussion Topics: 

Questions for students:

1. Mark would like to own Ben. What do you think he would do with Ben? What would be some difficulties of owning a bear?
2. Do you think Mark’s idea for saving Ben by making it look as if he escaped is a good plan? Why or why not?
3. Do you think Mark will ever complain about the work that it takes to care for Ben? Why or why not? Have you ever cared for a pet? Did it require more work than you anticipated?
4. Ben was not experienced living in the wild. Why is this not a problem for Ben?
5. What was Mr. Andersen’s reaction to seeing Ben on the island? Why is he concerned that Mark not see him?
6. Do you think the Andersens’ plan to keep Ben near their cabin will be successful? Why or why not?
7. How can Mark be assured that no one will come hunting for Ben in the future?

Materials students need to bring: 

Book for reference, pencils, crayons or markers.