Never Let Me Go

Worksheet Description

This worksheet invites a multifaceted exploration of Kazuo Ishiguro’s “Never Let Me Go,” a novel that blurs the lines between dystopian fiction and the Bildungsroman genre. Students are encouraged to examine the structure of the narrative, which unfolds through the reflective and poignant reminiscences of the protagonist, Kathy H. As students contemplate the growth and changes Kathy experiences, they engage deeply with her journey from childhood innocence to the complex awareness of adulthood within the constraints of her society. This task not only allows for character study but also opens a discussion on how personal development is portrayed in a controlled, dystopian environment.

The worksheet also prompts critical thinking on genre classification, challenging students to argue whether “Never Let Me Go” can be considered a Bildungsroman in addition to its dystopian label. It encourages an analysis of the traditional coming-of-age elements amidst the backdrop of a society fraught with ethical complexities and existential questions. This comparison enhances students’ understanding of literary genres and offers a platform for debate on how “Never Let Me Go” both conforms to and defies the conventions of a Bildungsroman.