Who is Kyra? Where does she live? Why does she take so much responsibility for her siblings? Why does Kyra answer to three mothers? How many siblings does Kyra have? For what reason? Why does Kyra like to hide in the Russian Olive trees? What makes this mildly dangerous? What does Kyra often hide there?

How did Kyra come to check out books from the Ironton County Mobile Library on Wheels? Who is Patrick? Why does he try to befriend Kyra? What is dangerous about Kyra coming to this mobile library? What is the first book Kyra checks out? Why does she choose this book? How does Kyra respond to this book? For what reason?

Who is the Prophet? Why does he come to the Carlson home? What does Kyra's father think he wants? What does Kyra think is the purpose of his visit...