What role do you think alcohol played in the destruction of the author's family and in his molestation? Do you think that any of the situations in the novel would have occurred if alcohol was not involved? What does this say about the dysfunction of the family? What does this say about alcohol?

In the novel, Goolrick participates in many acts of self-destruction, from drinking to cutting and sexual promiscuity. Why do you think Goolrick participates in these behaviors? Do you think they are a consequence of his own abuse during his childhood? Are they merely actions he willingly chooses to participate in that he blames on his early family life? Why?

Goolrick admits he hates his father for what he did to him as a child. How does he feel about his mother? How does this compare to the hatred he feels for...