How is the dust in this novel as much a character as the people in the novel?

Do you think that being burned so badly is part of the reason Ma dies, or do you think she would have died in childbirth anyway?

Many topics and objects in this book are symbolic. Do any of them seem to symbolize the same or similar ideas?

Why does Billie Jo start calling Daddy "my father" after Ma dies?

Why do you think Billie Jo doesn't leave her home sooner? Why do you think she finally leaves home when she does?

Do you think when she returns that she is settling or do you think she is making the right choice for her? Explain.

Setting is extremely important in this story. Discuss why and how it influences the story.

In what ways is Ma still present, perhaps even...