1. Describe Julia's friendships with Addie and Leslie. Does Julia nurture one relationship at the expense of the other?

2. Is Mrs. Moore influential in Julia's life? Does her advice about being responsive to the needs of others make an impression on Julia?

3. Describe Julia's relationship with Daddy Chandler. Why does she feel guilty at his death?

4. Is Mr. Kellerman a threatening character? Describe how others help Julia understand more about his shame and unhappiness.

5. What does Julia discover about herself, her father, and their respective careers as writers when she composes the short story "The Mask"?