1. Long John Silver orchestrates a mutiny aboard the Hispaniola, commits murder in cold blood, and betrays his fellow crew members. Yet, he is also cheerful, personable, and friendly towards Jim. Why does Stevenson design such a charming villain?

2. Why does Stevenson delay the departure of the Hispaniola until chapter 10? How do the initial chapters help to set the stage for Jim's adventures?

3. After his father's passing, Jim leaves the Admiral Benbow Inn to join Doctor Livesey and Squire Trelawney. How do these two men serve as surrogate father figures for Jim? Can Long John Silver be considered a father figure as well?

4. Squire Trelawney is portrayed as excessively talkative and a poor judge of character, favoring Long John Silver over Captain Smollett. What are the repercussions of the squire entrusting the hiring of the crew to Silver?

5. Stevenson's initial title for his novel was The Sea Cook. Is Treasure Island a more fitting title? Why or why not?

6. Although Jim narrates the majority of the story, Doctor Livesey takes over for three chapters. Why do you think Stevenson makes this narrative change?

7. From the moment Jim and his mother search the dead pirate's chest to Squire Trelawney's hasty decision to seek the buried treasure, greed and the pursuit of wealth drive Stevenson's plot. What does Stevenson imply about this motive? Why is it significant that the buried treasure contains coins from around the world?

8. Are skill, energy, and heroic efforts necessarily tied to moral goodness in Treasure Island? Do you find yourself sympathizing with Silver, the supposed villain, and feeling frustrated with the "good" characters at times? Does the conclusion of the story reestablish a traditional moral framework?

9. Do tales of pirates, adventure, and hidden treasure still hold relevance today? Why does Stevenson's story continue to captivate modern readers? Is it a story meant for adults or children?