Characters
Plot
Unique Vocab
Theme
Conflict
100
Who is the main character and narrator?
Sophie
100
Where are Sophie and her family sailing to?
England or
The UK
100
What is a "transom" on a boat?
The flat surface forming the stern of the vessel.
100
What is one major theme of the book?
Family, belonging, identity, coming of age, young feminism
100
What external conflict challenges the crew?
A dangerous storm at sea
200
What relation is Cody to Sophie?
He's her cousin.
200
What is the name of the boat they are sailing on?
The Wanderer
200
What does "galley" mean on a boat?
It is the kitchen area where food is prepared.
200
How does the journey at sea represent a coming-of-age?
It challenges each character and fosters personal growth.
200
What internal conflict does Cody face?
Insecurity and pressure from his father
300
Which character struggles with living up to his/her parents' expectations?
Cody
300
What happens during the storm at sea?
The crew faces danger, and Sophie steps up to help.
300
Define “watch” in sailing terms.
A shift of duty during which a crew member must be on alert.
300
How does memory play a role in the novel’s themes?
Memories influence identity and healing.
300
How does Sophie’s conflict with reality vs. imagination show up?
She often retreats into stories to cope with trauma.
400
Who is Dock?
What's unique about him?
He's Sophie uncle, Dock is his nickname, his real name is Jonah, and he has had three fiancées.
400
What dual timelines does Sophie narrate in her journal?
The current voyage and memories of her past.
400
Q: What is a “tiller” used for?
It’s used to steer the boat.
400
What theme is shown by Sophie’s storytelling and imagination?
The power of storytelling in understanding the self.
400
What is the generational conflict between the uncles and the younger boys?
Different approaches to responsibility and authority. Different understanding of discipline and freedom.
500
What inner conflict does Sophie face regarding her identity?
She struggles with the trauma of being adopted and losing her biological parents.
500
What is the significance of Sophie finally reading her adoption letter?
It symbolizes her acceptance of her past and herself.
500
What is a “squall”?
A sudden, violent gust of wind or storm at sea.
500
How is resilience a theme in The Wanderer?
Through facing emotional and physical storms, characters learn endurance and strength.
500
What central conflict defines Sophie’s personal journey?
Accepting her past and understanding where she belongs.