Describe Matthias. What are his strengths and weaknesses? Compare him to Tiddy. How are the two similar? How are they different?

How do Percy, Alia, and Matthias wind up at the old shack? What is the role of each in getting them there together? What happens to each of them prior to their arrival at the shack? What happens to each after their arrival?

Describe Matthias's role at the Population Police headquarters. How does he end up there? Why does he remain there? How does he escape? Some people wonder whether he'll come to accept his role as "pet" of the commander. Why are they concerned about that? Could it have happened? Why or why not?

The book's conclusion is open-ended, meaning the reader has to fill in what they believe might have happened. What do you think happened? Support your answers with information...