I for Isobel Lesson Plan

Why doesn’t Isobel’s mom ask for the brooch?

There is not a clear answer to this question in the book. Isobel herself wonders why her mother didn't ask for the brooch. She thinks, for the first time, it may be that there are things her mother can't do. What do students think? Mrs. Callaghan's behavior is not tempered by any affection for Isobel--she is hitting her as she screams about Isobel not saying thank you. Instead, it must be external forces that prevent her from asking for the brooch. Direct students to the moment when Isobel gets the brooch. Her mother claims she is spoiled and the rest of the adults shame her. Perhaps this shame is what keeps her from taking...