1. How does LaFaye make Katherine's impulsiveness seem plausible? In what ways do her emotions control Katherine? How does she mature during her experiences?

2. What factors contribute to Katherine's resilience and perseverance? What bolsters her courage?

3. How does Katherine differ from her coworkers? How are they similar?

4. How are families defined in this novel?

5. How does LaFaye make Katherine's aspirations seem realistic for a nineteenthcentury teenage girl?

6. Discuss how rural and urban communities are depicted in this novel. How does Katherine present a biased perspective of Wisconsin?

7. How are love, romance, and marriage portrayed in this book? Are Katherine's expectations for a husband and married life unrealistic?

8. What are Katherine's resources for survival? Why is her ability to innovate and adapt essential to attain autonomy?

9. How effective are the letters included in the text as a literary device?

10. How are any characters, such as immigrants...