Topic 1

Why is Sam so fascinated by the Vietnam War? What does finding out this information mean for her? Why is she fascinated by it now and not earlier in her life? What does she learn about the war throughout the book? How does this change her?

Topic 2

What is post-traumatic stress disorder and how does it manifest? Does Emmett or any of his friends have this? What are the signs?

Topic 3

Are Vietnam vets being treated different in Hopewell? How does the community feel about them? Is it supportive of their struggles as vets?

Topic 4

How does Lonnie’s version of Hopewell differ from that of the generation of boys before him?

Topic 5

How does Sam rebel against Hopewell and what is expected of a woman in Hopewell? Who are her examples of independent modern women?

Topic 6

Why is it significant for Sam, Emmett and Mamaw...