In the introduction to the novel, Elliot discusses the benefits of small town life. Discuss at least two of his ideas of benefits. Do you believe they are benefits? Why or why not?

In the section "Blacks in Appalachia" several individuals note discriminatory practices of whites in the area in history against blacks. Discuss at least three of these examples of discrimination. Do you think such activities occurred in other areas? Why do you think people behaved this way?

There are two different situations presented in the section "Blacks in Appalachia." Compare and contrast the experiences of Anna Tutt and Viola Lenoir. How were their lives similar and how were they different?

Many individuals are interviewed for the section pertaining to Southern folk pottery. Choose one of these individuals and discuss his or her life. What was their childhood like? How did they learn...