1. At first glance, Tim and Abner seem very different. But Klein tends to be a realist, and realistically, fathers and sons often resemble one another.

In what ways are Abner and Tim really very much alike?

2. What kinds of problems would an unwed father of eighteen or nineteen years old really face?

3. Klein uses foreshadowing in her novel. She uses both straightforward and ironic foreshadowing. Study her use of foreshadowing in connection with Abner's growing love for Tim and Mason or the developing relationship between Tim and Vivian.

4. When Tim finds out that his father is seriously interested in Margaret Hansen, he experiences a variety of emotions that he cannot understand.

What are these emotions, and what do they tell about Tim?

5. Klein uses Tim's dreams to give the reader insight into Tim's life and feelings. Find one of his...