Discuss the way that Kyle reacts to his dilemma in the story "Victory Lap." What seems to be the key that helps him decide to help Alison? Why is it so hard for him to make this decision?

What do you think the father in the story "Sticks" is trying to communicate through his yard decorations? What is the significance of the new owner throwing the sticks in the garbage heap?

In the story "Puppy," which mother loved her children the most? What characteristics do you use to determine which mother is best?

The story "Escape from Spiderhead" deals with the danger of experimenting with a person's emotions. In what ways are Jeff's emotions manipulated? Do you believe the experimenters intended to push Jeff as hard as they did?

Keeping up with the Joneses is a theme in the story "The Semplica Girl Diaries...