1. The car-jacking in the novel is the central event. Research this crime. How widespread is it? Does it just happen in urban areas or all over?

2. Zachary's father is expected to live his life being paralyzed. Research what advances are being made in science that would allow his father to walk again.

3. Zachary represents many issues being discussed in recent literature about the emotional life of boys. Why and what are people writing about boys? What events have lead to this examination of how boys are raised?

4. Zachary is the product of a broken home. Research the effects that divorce has on children, in particular in regard to risk-taking behavior among teens.

5. Zachary quits school, but does take the GED. Research, then compare and contrast the earnings and lifestyles of high school graduates against those of high school drop-outs.

6. Through...