Why do you think the author has titled this collection Fragile Things? What things are fragile in the stories and poems?

Discuss the theme of stories and storytelling in these stories and poems.

Discuss how magic is presented in these stories and poems.

What is the symbolism of the zombies in "Bitter Ground," the gargoyle in "How Do You Think it Feels?", and the empty house with its hidden chamber in "The Hidden Chamber"? What do these stories have in common?

How does the author use framing narratives and first person narrators to enhance the effect and atmosphere of his stories and poems? Give examples.

What is actually going on in "Closing Time"? Discuss the different possible readings of this story. Why do you think the author left the ending without a firm conclusion?

In what ways does the author twist typical science fiction...