Peter Nimble and His Fantastic Eyes

What is the unique appeal of the orphan in literature? What does Peter’s orphan status allow him to do? What does it prevent him from doing? Why?

When Peter resists Professor Cake’s offer, he claims, “I’m just a criminal” (64). Why is Cake looking for a boy with “criminal” qualities? Why would a well-behaved child not make a successful hero?

Peter “came into this world with no name at all” (3-4). What is the significance of Peter’s name? How does it define his identity and self-worth?