1. Jonny and Sophie are both victims of memory. Explain how their problems are alike and different.

2. In Chapter 1, Mahy explains in a footnote that The Treaty of Waitangi between the English government in New Zealand and the Maori people is currently being reassessed. Research this issue. What is it about? See if you can find information on the Waitangi Tribunal and the Mana Motuhake political party.

3. The Maori, the first people to settle in New Zealand, have rich cultural traditions. Find out as much as possible about these traditions.

4. Some readers might complain that there are too many references to sex, violence, and alcohol in the novel. Do you think these are included for sensational effect or are they necessary for the realism of the story? Explain.

5. Max Dainton diagnoses Sophie's symptoms as those of Alzheimer's disease. Do some research...