Describe the live of a slave in the American colonies during the early 1700s. Does this representation of slave life, particularly in the northern state of New York, surprise you? Why or why not? What different views of slavery do the characters in the novel represent? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

What symbolism do plants have in the novel? Explain the symbolism of the seeds that Isabel hides in her pocket when she leaves Miss Mary Finch's home. What does it mean to Isabel, and to the symbolism, when she realizes that the seeds she planted at the Lockton home have died? How might these scenes tie into the New York mayor's comparison of rebels and vines? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Describe the conflicting representations of loyalty...