1. The two girls are headed out to the point near Pam McQuillen's. Alexandra is taking Steph there because she thinks that it is way past the time for Steph to have a boyfriend. 1) Give five reasons why Alexandra insists that Steph goes along with her plan. 2) Why is Steph not thrilled about this adventure?

2. What is "ouija walking?" Who invents it? How does this exemplify the inventor's personality?

3. How does Jonathan's attitude about the party differ from Brent's?

4. Who is the narrator in Chapter 4? What is his job? Describe how his job brings peace to him.

5. When Brent and Jonathan arrive at the party, what becomes apparent to Brent when he sees other guests? Why does this observation make him angry at Jonathan?

6. How is the wooden marching band whirligig a contradiction in terms of Flaco's life? Does he see it as such? Use details to support.

7. What does Brent recall about the automobile accident? How do his parents try to keep him from knowing facts about the accident?

8. What is guided imagery? Why does Alexandra believe in it? What happens on the adventure that turns Steph into a believer?

9. How does Brent react to Lea's mother's recollection of her daughter's death?

10. What pointers does Alexandra give Steph for attracting boys?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Develop an analogy based on the changes which Brent experiences throughout the book.

Essay Topic 2

After hearing Brent's story, the artist tells Brent that everyone makes mistakes, and he is forgiven. Discuss why this is an important moment in Brent's life. How will this moment affect Brent's dealings with other people?