1. Why is Gail selected as a victim?

Does she do anything to encourage the attack? How does her behavior contrast with that of LaVerne Shull, who hangs around with the "sweathogs"?

2. When does suspicion first fall on Phil? What clues given throughout the story indicate that he is the rapist?

3. How does Gail become isolated from her friends, family, and teachers as threats from the rapist become more intense?

4. Rape is not the only problem in this novel. What conflicts confront Sonia Slanek, Alison, Miss Venable, Madame Malevich, and Mrs. Montgomery?

5. Gail's father loses his job as an architect. How is his problem similar to Gail's problem as a victim?