Where The Watermelons Grow

What is the role of books and storytelling in the novel? How do these elements shape characterization, the plot, and/or reflect the novel’s key ideas?

How is Arden characterized in the novel? What is her wider significance in the text?

One of the main themes of the novel is The Impact of Mental Illness on Family. How does Mama’s schizophrenia impact each member of the Kelly family? How are they different or similar in their responses to these challenges?

In what ways does the weather parallel the events of the novel and/or the emotions of the characters?

What is the role of the Bee Lady and her honey in the story? How does the honey reflect the novel’s key themes and ideas?

Examine the novel’s depiction of mental illness. What stereotypes about mental illness does the novel challenge? How and why?

Della has close ties with various people in her community. How are these community ties portrayed in the novel? What does the novel suggest about the nature and benefits of community?

Analyze Della’s character arc in the novel. How does Della change and grow over the course of the novel?