1. Research atheism. Are there any famous or important people who are atheists?

2. Research the history and doctrine of your religion.

3. Research the ministry of Billy Sunday, Marjo Gortner, Oral Roberts, Billy Graham, and other evangelists.

4. Explain the concept of "born again." Look up "evangelism" and "evangelicalism" and explain what these terms mean.

5. What is local color in literature?

How does the term pertain to this book?

6. Read and compare Rylant's books for young children with her books for older readers.