1. In chapter one, Trillin reveals that although his readers become familiar with Alice as a sensible, somewhat serious character in his books and articles, they never really know her. Why?

2. In chapter three, why does Alice accept the request to be photographed in a fashion issue of a magazine?

3. What does Alice keep in her Important Things envelope? Why are the things inside it so important to her?

4. In chapter one, the reader learns that there is one condolence letter that makes Calvin Trillin laugh. Why?

5. Does Alice believe she is accurately portrayed in Trillin's books and articles? Briefly describe why or why not.

6. What are some of the adversities Alice faces throughout her life?

7. Calvin Trillin states that from the day he meets Alice, he never stops trying to impress her. Why?

8. Chapter three contains two humorous poems about Alice. What theme do they share?

9. When Calvin Trillin describes the first time he sees Alice in chapter two, what does he say is the first thing that strikes him about her? Is it simply her attractiveness, or something else?

10. In chapter two, Calvin Trillin draws a parallel in the relationship between the novelist Dick Francis and his late wife Mary and Trillin's own marriage to Alice. Explain.

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Write an essay explaining the secret that Alice learns from a little girl named L. at the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp. What special meaning does this lesson carry for Alice? In what ways is L. similar to Alice in the way she lives her life? Cite examples from the book in your response.

Essay Topic 2

Write an essay in which you make an argument for or against the Alice Tax. Compare and contrast the Alice Tax with Alice's Law of Compensatory Cash Flow. Cite examples from the book in your response.