Danny, the Champion of the World

What makes William the ideal father according to Danny? Do you agree?

Why does Mr. Hazell send inspectors to William’s property? Why do you think Mr. Hazell targets William and not any of the other townspeople who also participate in poaching?

Danny lost his mother when he was very young; how has that loss affected Danny? How has it affected William?

Discuss the roles that social status, class, and wealth play in the narrative.

Why is poaching seen as acceptable by the community? Can you describe other crimes, current or historical, that are normalized and accepted?

Do you think Mr. Hazell deserves the treatment he gets from Doc Spencer and William? Discuss.

Consider Danny’s age and his strong relationship with his father. Why doesn’t Danny invite any of his friends to the caravan? Do you think this is a healthy way to respond to the relationship with his father? How might this change as Danny gets older?

Is Mr. Hazell justified in digging pits to trap people trespassing on his land? What other approach could Mr. Hazell have taken?