1. Why do you think Tara is so upset about her new baby brother or sister?

2. What lessons do Tara and Elizabeth learn about responsibility?

3. How does Elizabeth react when she learns that her father is leaving?

4. What lessons does Elizabeth learn from her mother?

5. Why do you think Elizabeth's father is so hostile to Tara?

6. The novel clearly outlines the differences in the girls' personalities. What personality traits do they have in common?

7. Think about the disagreements the girls have. Do they serve a purpose?

8. How do you feel about Tara's reaction to Elizabeth's problems? Do you think Elizabeth was justified in getting angry about Tara's hostility toward Elizabeth's father?

9. Why do you think the girls' relationship nearly deteriorated?

10. Contrast Tara's relationship with her parents with Elizabeth's relationship with hers.

11. Write a character analysis of Elizabeth's father. Based on your observations, how do you...