1. At the beginning of the story, Ken spends a lot of time looking at pictures and "losing himself" in them. What does this show about him?

2. Both Rob and Nell, Ken's parents, fight to maintain certain standards from back East. What kind of standards are these, and how are Nell's standards different from Rob's?

3. The author uses Howard, who is very different from Ken, to show some of Ken's most important characteristics by contrast. What are some of the ways in which Howard and Ken differ, and what do we learn about Ken from the differences?

4. Is it important for the reader to know that Ken's chosen colt is one of the descendants of the Albino? Why or why not?

5. What do Gus and Tim, the ranch hands, add to the story?

6. Why do you think Ken's headmaster is so impressed with Ken's essay...