How is whittling a symbol for Delrita's life? What does she realize about herself and her family through the process of whittling? What does the Whittlin' Walt's quote, "Life is like an untouched block of wood. We can carve out a beautiful niche for ourselves, or we can leave it unused and unproductive on a shelf" (p. 117), mean to the message of the novel? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Describe Delrita's relationship with her Aunt Queenie. Why does Delrita struggle to trust her aunt? Do you understand Delrita's hesitation? Why or why not? What does Delrita learn about herself and her relationship with Punky through her experiences with Aunt Queenie? Be sure to include examples from the text to help strengthen your arguments.

Compare and contrast the characters of Delrita and Avanelle. What is the same...