Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- What's the point of writing this novel as a memory? Why not write it in the present tense? Why are loss and love so often linked (think Opal and her mom, Amanda and Carson)?
- While Opal's language is simple, her ideas seem complex. Is her insight justifiable for a ten-year-old girl? Does she seem like a realistic ten-year-old? Why does Opal need Winn-Dixie to act on her dreams and/or fears? Have you ever needed someone to nudge you forward?What if Winn-Dixie could talk? What would he tell Opal (1) when they meet, (2) before the party, and (3) at the end of the party?
- How would the story change if it took place outside of the South? In Minnesota? Nevada? What about Hawaii? What if Opal's mom came back at the end of the book? How would the story continue?
- Which characters have the most in common with Opal? With Winn-Dixie? Would Opal and Winn-Dixie have had the same effect on Naomi if it were a wealthy community? Does socioeconomic status (how much moolah and class you've got) affect the way the characters act? Why or why not? Why is Winn-Dixie a dog? How would the story change if he were a person, cat, guinea pig, you-name-it? What was Opal's Most Important Thing? What is yours?