1. Dave appears to envy Jep, and yet they are best friends. Why is Dave able to maintain this friendship in the face of the negative emotion?

2. Dave views the more worldly Jep as independent and mature. Discuss the signs of maturity shown by Jep and Dave. Who do you believe is more mature? Explain your choice.

3. Nan Tobin and Susan Scherra are quite different. Which would be a better friend and why?

4. Dave believes his parents are overprotective. Compare Dave's parents with Jep's. Which would you choose?

Why?

5. When Dave buys a car, it is a symbolic act. Discuss what owning a car means for a young adult.

6. Dave feels that he is responsible for Jep's death. Discuss ways in which he is or is not responsible.