1. Read another book about the aftermath of a nuclear war. Write a report comparing the methods the survivors use to cope in it with those of the people in Children of the Dust.

2. Nuclear war is not the only way civilization could be destroyed. List at least five other dangers you think could possibly lead to such a breakdown. For each one, indicate steps people could take to prevent it from happening.

3. The author of Children of the Dust uses contrast to show hope rising out of horror. Pick some event or subject you have strong, mixed feelings about.

Write a poem or a few paragraphs about it. Try to use the same sort of contrasts in part of what you write— for example, mixing beautiful and ugly things or scary images with scenes of safety.

4. Draw a map...