How much influence did Catholic dogma have on Eddie Ryan's life as an adolescent? Give specific examples from the work.

What are the benefits of "community cohesiveness"? What are the drawbacks?

There is a definite hierarchy within the student body at Bremmer High School. How does it compare to that within public schools today?

About what is Eddie Ryan cynical? Do you think his cynicism is justified? Why or why not?

Eddie spends a lot of time discussing teachers at Bremmer. How is Ed Kascher different?

There are a number of social and political comments spattered throughout the book. What are these and do they remain relevant today?

During graduation, Eddie comments on several of the students as they walk across the stage. What political and social comments is he making with these comments?