1. In his novels, Bellairs typically uses "substitute parents," such as Miss Eells, who seem to act as better parents than the main character's own parents. Compare Miss Eells and Anthony's parents to real-life parents. What does Bellairs suggest that ideal parents should provide their children?

2. D. H. Lawrence wrote a short story called "The Rocking-Horse Winner" (1932) that deals with a young boy who is bothered so much by his mother's preoccupation with the family's lack of money that he goes to extraordinary lengths to find a way to bring the family money. Read Lawrence's story; then develop a report comparing it to Bellairs's novel. What do both stories say about the influence parents have on their children and on their children's peace of mind?

3. Is Anthony's desire to help others— not only his parents but also Miss Eells after...