Discuss which aspects of the story could be consider cliches of the horror genre.

How does darkness play a role in the story. Discuss Lawrence's fear of darkness and Dale's role in protecting his younger brother.

Mike is a precociously responsible boy. Why is this so, and how does his maturity help save Elm Haven?

Duane McBride wanted to be a writer and knew that he would have to begin working early in life to become a good one. What other careers often require dedication early in life?

Dan Simmons uses childhood friends from his home town of Peoria, Illinois as the models for the characters in Summer of Night. Research some other examples of authors using childhood friends as character models. Does this practice always lead to sufficient depth of character?

There is no mystery to SUMMER OF NIGHT. The children suspect right...