There are many uses of nature within the short stories in the novel. For example, nature is used as part of Pepe's struggle in 'Flight' and is used to convey a sense of loneliness in 'A Country Love Story.' Describe the use of nature in at least two stories in the novel. Make sure to note the story, how nature was used, and what the effect was on the overall plot or feel of the story.

There are several coming of age stories in this collection. Choose two, and describe what experiences the characters have that cause them to mature, and what that maturity means to them. For example, in 'The Nightingales Sing,' Joanna's exposure to new people and to new ideas lead to her recognition that her own life is safe and secure as well as highly structured. The knowledge that...