1. Many of the terms used in this story are British. Define those terms that are most unfamiliar and discuss their importance.

2. Why does Great Britain celebrate Guy Fawkes Day? What is the significance of Fawkes's role as a "character" in The Machine Gunners?

3. There are many instances in The Machine Gunners when Chas feels the need to be in control of his life. How does he react to his feelings?

4. Describe Rudi, the German captive, concentrating on his compassionate nature. Why does he get along so well with the young people?

5. Compare Chas's personality traits with those of his father. How does this comparison explain many of Chas's actions?

6. Compare Westall's The Machine Gunners to William Golding's Lord of the Flies. How are the two books similar?