1. What is the significance of the title?

2. Why do you think the author chose to portray most of the action in one room? Does this approach enhance his story? How?

3. Discuss grandfather's memory tree and Lott family tradition of planting a fruit tree at the graveside.

4. Georgina lived from 1851 to 1918.

As she told her story, what U.S. historical events are part of her family's life? What are some U.S. events that took place that were not described in her story? Why are some included and others not?

5. What are the superstitions that Georgina describes in her narrative?

What role do these superstitions play in the story?

6. Point out aspects of early American life that are included in this story that you did not know before.

7. Name instances that involve hands in Georgina's story. What do these instances signify?

8. Give examples of the...