1. At several points in the novel, Dinky and the others describe people who act in a freakish manner, such as the boy in Natalia's school who wears his clothing backward. Yet, the book's major characters are also odd. What do you think Kerr is suggesting about the reasons for Dinky's criticisms?

2. P. John Knight likes to point out the recklessness, irrationality, and selfdefeating behavior of human beings.

Find a few meaningful instances of this in the novel. Does P. John see folly in himself?

3. Tucker's uncle "Jingle" Bell does not seem to be a major character in the plot.

What is his significance in the novel?

Whom does he affect?

4. P. John's favorite line is, "Don't understand me too quickly." What does this mean? Can you identify any characters who are understood too hastily and suffer because of it?

5. Considering her background and unusual...