1. If you have read the other two books in this trilogy, does this—the final volume— fulfill its purpose? Did the story end as you expected? If you have not read the other two novels, what do you imagine Rita's story was in the years leading up to the events in this book?

2. Are Rita's parents more hurt by her relationship with Arnold or the lies she has told them?

3. Are Rita and Arnold a good match? 4. Why does the protagonist sign her name as "Rita Bromberg" on the lease for the house?

5. Is Arnold likely to find a permanent career in bookbinding?

6. Does the scene in which Rita steals the hot water bottle add anything to the story? Does it diminish your opinion of Rita as a character?

7. How and why do Rita's feelings for Miss Quadrangle change over the course...