1. How does the single-parent family structure affect Summer and Sparrow?

How do the Mclntyres compare with single-parent families you know?

2. Discuss Summer's method of compensating for not having a father. Has Summer found a positive solution to her problem or is it ultimately harmful?

3. Discuss the significance of Summer's letter to Alan. How does her realization that she will never meet her father signify her emotional growth?

4. Do you feel that the growing of marijuana is a suitable subject for a young adult novel? What image does this story project of drug dealers and drug users? Do you agree with that portrayal?

5. Choose your favorite adult character in the book and explain why you particularly like that character.