The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

From the novel’s start, we know that Charlotte is our narrator and that it is easy to trust her. However, knowing that the story takes place in Charlotte’s past and that she was willing to change the captain’s logbook to hide the true nature of Jaggery and Hollybrass’s deaths, can we trust her? Does it matter? Why or why not?

Teaching Suggestion: Students will likely conclude that Charlotte is a reliable narrator. However, nudge them to think about what it means to know who your narrator is and how different elements can contribute to their characterization.

Differentiation Suggestion: For English language learners and students who may benefit from assistance with whole-text tasks, you may want to encourage the creation of a T-chart with pros and cons for trusting Charlotte. Then, discuss before moving into a class vote.