1. Retell the story from the point of view of the Socs. What is the title of this new book? Are the Socs "the insiders," or are they outcasts, too?

2. Write a research paper on presentday gang life. Does the information you find remind you of Ponyboy's gang? Does it remind you of Tim Shepard's gang or the gang from Brumly? Considering that The Outsiders is set in the 1960s, how realistic do you think Hinton's portrayal of gang life is?

3. Write a paper about child abuse. What options are available for young people in Johnny's situation? Are Johnny's reactions and feelings typical of an abused child?

4. Who is your favorite character in this book? Why? Who is your least favorite character? Why? Which character in this book is most like you? Why?

5. Read some of the criticism written on The...