In "The Way It Felt to Be Falling," Kate's father succumbs to a form of madness when he loses his consulting business during a recession. Using the clues in the story, research the specific condition that Kate's father most likely has, then put yourself in his place. Write a one-page description of what a typical day is like living with this mental condition, using your research to support your ideas.

Research the Grateful Dead phenomenon that swept through the United States in the late twentieth century. Imagine that you are making a contribution to a time capsule, in which you record what it was like to be a "Deadhead"—a devoted fan who followed the Grateful Dead on their concert tours. Use a combination of words, photos, illustrations, or other printed media in your description.

Investigate and discuss the current psychological...