74 pages 2 hours read

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The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1979

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

During Reading

Reading Questions & Paired Texts

Reading Check and Short Answer Questions on key points are designed for guided reading assignments, in-class review, formative assessment, quizzes, and more.

INTRODUCTION AND CHAPTERS 1-7

Reading Check

1. Why are the bulldozers in front of Arthur Dent’s house?

2. Where does Ford Prefect take Arthur?

3. How is Arthur able to understand the Vogon language?

Short Answer

Answer each question in at least 1 complete sentence. Incorporate details from the text to support your response.

1. How does Zaphod Beeblebrox command the attention of the media and public?

2. How do Arthur and Ford escape Earth?

3. Why do Arthur and Ford tell Prostetnic Vogon Jeltz that they liked his poetry?

Paired Resource

What Is a Bureaucracy and How It Works, With Examples

  • This article from Investopedia introduces the workings of bureaucracy in the modern world and includes a discussion of its origins and characteristics.
  • This resource connects to the themes of The Absurdity of Modern Bureaucracy and The Emptiness of Authority.
  • What is bureaucracy? Why is it so tempting for writers and comedians to satirize this system of government?

CHAPTERS 8-14

Reading Check

1. Who are manning the Heart of Gold when Dent and Ford arrive in it?

2. How does Arthur know Zaphod?

3. What causes Trillian to become so upset?