1. In the story "Ah Mee's Invention," what is Ching Chi's attitude towards his son? Why is Ah Mee not punished for his misbehavior?

2. In the story "Shen of the Sea," the old gardener Wu Chang says that inventing writing was "a mistaken thing to do." Why might he feel this way about writing? What role does writing play in the control of the water demons?

3. Why does Meng Hu repeatedly conclude: "How wise were the Old Men!"?

What is the relationship between fate and self-determination in Meng Hu's life?

4. In the story "Chop-Sticks," Chrisman says, "the wedding bell has two tongues." What does he mean?

5. What personal characteristics does the orphan Ah Tzu exhibit that allow him to become the son of the emperor in "Buy a Father"?

6. Why are the "Four Generals" such great leaders? What leadership qualities do they exhibit?

7. What does...