Who is Doug? Why does he feel like his father blames him for everything and that he is always in trouble for something? What is the biggest challenge that Doug faces? How is it changing his life and his viewpoint of life?

Discuss the relationship between Doug and his mother. Is there guilt or a sense of obligation in their relationship? How does Doug feel about his mom? How does Doug's mom feel about Doug? Why does Doug's mom often take the brunt of Mr. Swieteck's anger? What does she do about changing it?

How does Lil get sick? How does this affect the future for Doug and Lil? How does each character react emotionally and what actions to they take to compensate for her illness?

Who is Christopher Swirteck? Why does he feel like he is a criminal even when he is not...