1. In a literary dictionary or encyclopedia, look up "kunstlerroman." Apply the concept to Wil's story.

2. Read Siddhartha by Herman Hesse.

Compare and contrast the spiritual journey of its central character to Wil's journey.

3. Read about Buddhism in a religious encyclopedia or short introductory book. Describe the parallels and differences between the Buddhist quest for spiritual perfection and Wil's search for identity.

4. Read Walden by Henry David Thoreau. Compare and contrast Thoreau's year by a pond with Wil's days on a lake. Consider especially the lessons about himself each character learned.

5. Write a series of mini-essays in imitation of Wil's epigraphs. Describe lessons that you have learned about life from small, seemingly inconsequential events.

6. Write Wil's essay about his father, the essay that would describe the relationship that begins just as the novel is ending.

7. Imagine you are the sympathetic reporter...