1. Why does Brent initially rely on outward appearances and possessions to help him feel good about himself? What makes you feel good about yourself?

2. What does alcohol do to a person's ability to reason and make decisions?

3. How does the second chapter, "Weeksboro, Maine," fit into the story?

It is a flash forward. Explain what that means. How did Fleischman have to think about his writing to write these independent stories that intersperse Brent's story?

4. In "The Afterlife" chapter, Brent wants punishment, and his father wants to "get him off" with no time in jail. React to Brent's feelings of guilt, remorse, and disinterest in life.

5. What is probation? Does it only refer to the justice system?

6. Fleischman writes, "We never know all the consequences of our acts. They reach into places we can't see. And into the future, where no one can." What...