1) How does this dramatic version of the Hansel and Gretel story differ from/resemble other versions of the story you have read? Give details.

2) Brainstorm other instances from your reading and viewing where this basic theme of the story - the alienation of children/young people from their parents and the children's consequent need to battle (with the natural or the supernatural) for survival - is explored. What major rite of passage do these "stories" enact?

3) This dramatization is very sensual. Itemize all those places where the senses (and think of all five) are invoked, especially to shape the plot.

4) Complete this question (acting it out if necessary), even if it sounds bizarre. Look at p. 1, where the father begins to tell the story in a traditional, once-upon-a-time-narrator's voice, and then switches to play-style dialogue. What would you do with the tennis ball during the first part of the speech (to ...couldn't sleep at all)? What would you do with it in the next part?