Description:

The Man Who Loved Clowns by June Rae Wood is a novel about 13-year-old Delrita Jensen, who lives with her beloved Uncle Punky, an adult with Down syndrome. Although Delrita loves Punky deeply, she is embarrassed by the way others treat him and tries to avoid drawing attention to their family. When a sudden tragedy changes their lives, Delrita must learn to accept help from others, overcome her fears of being judged, and recognize Punky’s strengths and dignity. Inspired by the author’s own brother, the novel explores themes of family, disability, acceptance, grief, friendship, and compassion.  

Discussion Questions:

• Delrita desperately seeks invisibility at school in an attempt to protect her uncle from bullying. How does this invisibility affect Delrita’s own identity and her ability to build relationships?
• How does the sheltered workshop allow Punky to thrive and find purpose and fulfillment?
• How does the town’s parade float challenge Delrita’s fears and perceptions  of her town’s acceptance of her Uncle?
• Whittlin’ Walt says a pretty powerful quote in the book, “Life is like an untouched block of wood. We can carve out a beautiful niche for ourselves, or we can leave it unused and unproductive on a shelf” (p. 117). What does that quote mean to you and how do you think that piece of wood and wisdom affected Delrita?