1. Sophie remarks throughout the book that she is a failure, and that this comes from being the eldest of three.

Do you agree with her assessment from the perspectives both of real world experience and of fairy tale convention? Why or why not? What does her comment tell you about her personality?

2. In Chapter 2, Sophie and Martha express two completely different views of Fanny's character and actions. Why do you think they hold such different opinions? What do their opinions tell you about Fanny and themselves?

3. How does the fact of being prematurely aged affect Sophie and her perception of herself? Does the experience influence her understanding of the world or of other people? Why do you think the author used this particular technique to develop and express Sophie's character?

4. In Chapter 9 Michael and Sophie almost succeed in catching a falling star. Why does the...