Although this is a book concerning baseball, the title comes from a cowboy song. How are baseball players like cowboys? How are they different?

Describe the differences in the way people treat Bruce before and after they find out that he is dying.

Bruce's mother dies, somewhat unexpectedly. How do people react to this death? Compare this with Bruce's own death.

What is the significance to Michele being born when Bruce has a deadly disease? Does this have any significance? What does this say about life and death?

How would the story be different if the Mammoths were playing very badly? Do you think the other players would be as sympathetic?

Do you think it is better to die young, at one's peak, or live a long life? Explain. Who have you known who has died?

If you could choose your time and method...