Discuss the parallels in the narrative's two main mother/son relationships (i.e. between Bix and his mother, and between Jerome and his). What values, attitudes and actions in the one contrast and/or illuminate values, attitudes and actions in the other? How do these contrasts and/or parallels relate to the book's primary themes?

How does the Seven-Up company slogan, painted on the side of the van that shows up after the baseball game at the end of "First Part," foreshadow and/or reflect the events and themes of the book?

What do you think is the metaphoric and/or symbolic value of Jerome's secret basketball court (see "Second Part, Section 8")? Consider the events that take place here, the characters who participate in those events, and the personal / emotional circumstances in which those events take place.

Imagine and write down the conversation between...