1. How significant are the minor characters like Isabella, Jeremy, Owl, or the Frisby children? What contributions do they make to the narrative?

2. Various settings such as the woods, Owl's tree, Thorn Valley, and the NIMH laboratory are utilized in the novel to symbolize conflict, character development, or themes. Discuss how these specific locations achieve this effect.

3. Jenner and Nicodemus offer two distinct perspectives on the lifestyle of the rat colony. What are these perspectives? How does each perspective reflect their experiences at NIMH? What is the value of each perspective?

4. Mr. Frisby often remarked, "All doors are hard to unlock until you have the key." So, Mrs. Frisby must seek out this key. But where should she look? Whom should she consult?" What "key" do she and other characters use to resolve their challenges?

5. Mrs. Frisby is initially recognized by Owl, Mr. Ages, and the rats because she was Jonathan's wife, and her first name is never revealed, unlike other characters. Justin might believe that sedating the cat, Dragon, is "no job for a lady," yet Mrs. Frisby does it regardless. What assumptions do the other characters have about Mrs. Frisby? How does she defy these stereotypes?

6. The film The Secret of NIMH offers a significantly different conclusion to the story. How do the conflict and resolution differ from those in the novel? What themes and ideas are central to each version?