This resource focuses on exploring authorial intent in fictional narratives, specifically through the lens of W.W. Jacobs' short story 'The Monkey's Paw'. Students will engage in activities that encourage them to brainstorm reasons behind an author's choice of plot elements, such as characters and objects. The learning objective is for students to articulate the concept of authorial intent by considering why certain dark elements, like the cursed monkey's paw, are chosen over conventional symbols of luck. The resource incorporates a 'See-Think-Wonder' routine, inviting students to analyze an image of the paw, ponder the kind of stories it could belong to, and discuss the emotional impact of selecting a cursed object versus a traditional charm. Additionally, the 'Think-Pair-Share' routine promotes collaborative critical thinking by having students refine their thoughts on authorial choices and their effects on readers.