Lee Wardlaw has published more than two dozen award-winning books for young readers, including Won Ton: A Cat Tale Told in Haiku and Red, White, and Boom! She lives in Santa Barbara, California.
Eugene Yelchin is the author and illustrator of The Haunting of Falcon House, Arcady's Goal,and the Newbery Honor Book Breaking Stalin's Nose. He has also illustrated several books for children, including Crybaby, Who Ate All the Cookie Dough?, and Won Ton. He lives in California with his wife and children.
Reading Group Guide
Discussion Questions
1. What does the shelter have? What does it NOT have? What does our cat hero mean when he says, "or so I've been told."
2. How are the cats alone but together in the shelter? Describe what feelings you think Won Ton has.
3. What's special about visiting hours?
4. Explain why the cat thinks there is "no contest" with dogs. Do you agree? Make a pros and cons list for each pet.
5. Do all the children during visiting hours treat the cats kindly? How do you know?
6. How hard is it to name a pet? How do you decide? What name does the boy choose? Do you think it's a good name or not?
7. How does Won Ton feel about the new place? What details prove this? Have you ever been nervous or afraid to try something new? Why?
8. What does it mean to "snub" something? What foods do you snub?
9. What habits does Won Ton have that you like or dislike? Would you like him to live with you? Why or why not?
10. Where is Won Ton's favorite place to sleep? Where is yours?
11. What happens when the boy's sister plays with Won Ton? Do cats usually like little children or not? Why?
12. What does your "nose know?" What are good snacks for cats? Which ones are disappointing? What's your favorite snack?
13. Describe the types of things that the boy and Won Ton like to do together. How do cats get the attention of their owners? How do you get the attention of your parents?
14. What is the best part of owning a pet? What can be difficult?
15. In the end, what does Won Ton tell the boy that's important?
