1. In The Stone Book Mary is frightened at first when she must climb St. Philip's steeple, but her fear gradually changes to a boldness that astounds her father, who is used to high places. How does Garner trace the steps of this transformation in Mary's feelings?

2. Each book in the series describes an important day for someone in the family.

For instance, Granny Reardun takes place on Joseph's last day of school.

What family turning points occur in the other stories? Why does Garner choose to base his stories on these particular events?

3. Garner's villagers are generally unsinkable: Uncle William makes light of his deafness; Faddock Allman lives cheerfully without legs; after each bombing run, the village children collect shrapnel as if the pieces were baseball cards. What other characters triumph over hardships? What gives them their strength?

4. Giving Mary a stone facsimile of...