At the beginning of the book, Dr. Piedmont tells Pat that Pat is a godsend and an answer to many prayers, yet Dr. Piedmont does not always treat people with the Christian behavior he professes. Discuss the behavior of Dr. Piedmont and others like him and how they believe they are living their religion.

Would you have taken the job of teaching on Yamacraw Island? Explain why or why not.

Pat feels that he failed because he could not fit in with the people in charge of the schools, but he suppresses his feelings many times in the story to get what he needs. Discuss Pat's behavior and how he chooses when to fight and when to keep quiet.

Discuss what would happen to a teacher like Mrs. Brown if she were to step into a school system in 2008.

What do you think Pat's...