The Great Wide Sea Questions

Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.

  1. Do you think that Mr. Byron's fall was a suicide attempt, or an accident? Use details from the story to make your case.
  2. Why do you think the author chose to tell the story from Ben's point of view?
  3. There are a lot of books, movies, and TV shows about being stranded on a deserted island. Pick one to compare with the book. In what ways are they similar? How are they different?
  4. If Mr. Byron was asked to explain the rationale behind his idea for a year at sea, what do you think he would say?
  5. Why do you think different people grieve in different ways?