4. Do you think the government would be as unresponsive in "real" life to people caught in a nuclear accident such as the one that happens in this story?

5. How does Nyle wisely help Ezra feel comfortable in her room?

6. How does Muncie try to prepare Nyle for Ezra's possible death?

7. How do you think the image of sheep is used by Ezra in this chapter?

8. What gets Nyle thinking about her father and why is she mad at him (though, perhaps she unconscious of the reason)?

9. How does Nyle react to the idea of Ezra wearing Gramps clothing and what do you think is the reason for her reaction?

10. How does Nyle and Gran's discussion about the Trent's future show Nyle's continued maturing?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

In chapter 19, when Ezra and Nyle are in his room doing homework, the fire department sirens go off. Immediately, he commands Nyle to close the curtains. Nyle tries to calm Ezra's fears, but he succumbs to them anyway. Soon, the sirens dissipate, and they hear a lone fire truck drive by on the road. Ezra recovers quickly and thanks Nyle for understanding. Answer the following questions by writing a cohesive essay using specific examples and details to illustrate your stance.

1. How long do you think Ezra will react to stimuli that remind him of the accident? If he lived for many years after this, do you think at some point he would be completely over the trauma of this time? Why or why not?

2. There is a psychological condition called post traumatic stress syndrome (or disease). Learn a little about this state and decide if you think Ezra suffers from this problem. Explain your analysis.

3. What do you think it will take for Ezra to heal?

Essay Topic 2

In chapter 3, Mr. Sobel, the science teacher, informs the students all about radioactive materials. Nyle reflects on how much better science class was when it was just text in a book and not material that the children experienced firsthand. Answer the following questions by writing a well-developed essay using specific examples and details:

1. What is ironic about Mr. Sobel's science lesson? Do you think the irony is humorous or tragic? Why?

2. We have all heard the statement, "learn by experience." Now it is apparent there are times when that's not the best way to learn. When is learning by experience helpful? When can it be harmful? How does Ezra learn by experience in a harmful way? In a helpful way (see chapter 21)?

3. Which type of learning do you prefer--hands on or book learning? Why?

Essay Topic 3

In chapter 6, Mrs. Trent asks Nyle if she would dip the washcloth into the sweet water and dab it on Ezra's lips. Immediately, Nyle remembers her grandmother promised that she would not have to tend to Ezra's physical needs, but she sees the look of exhaustion on Mrs. Trent's face and decides that this is another one of those things that "she needed to do." Answer the following questions by writing a cohesive essay using specific examples and details to illustrate your stance.

1. Compare and contrast how Nyle feels about caring for Ezra when she first starts the care giving to near the end of the time Nyle has to care for him.

2. What do you think shifts Nyle's attitude? Give examples.

3. Do you think it is fair of Gran to expect Nyle to care for a stranger? Why or why not?

(see the answer keys)

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