Silvana replaces her dead son with a baby boy about the same age. Why does she do this? Should she have done this? Why or why not? How does Janusz react to this news? Are you surprised that he has acted this way? Why or why not? How does his view of this situation change? Why? Should Silvana and Janusz tell the boy that he is not really their son? Why or why not?

Janusz sees Silvana as being stronger than him. Why does he feel this way? What evidence is given throughout the book that supports this? How do Janusz's weaknesses influence his decisions? When have you allowed your own weaknesses to influence your decisions and/or actions? How can this help you relate to Janusz?

Helene is shot and killed. If she had not died, do you believe that Janusz would have...