Why is Jacob so unhappy in the assisted-living center? Is Jacob really angry with the nurses and the other residents at the center? Is Jacob depressed as the doctor suggests? Or does Jacob's unhappiness go deeper than these simple suggestions?

Why does Jacob believe the lawyer is lying about once carrying water for the elephants? Why does Jacob not explain why he does not believe the lawyer? Why does Jacob not tell anyone about his time with the circus?

Why does Jacob run away when his parents die? Where does Jacob intend to go? Why does Jacob jump onto the train? What does he hope to find there?

Discuss August. Who is August? Why does August have such strange mood shifts? Are any of August's mood shifts justified by the behaviors of those around him? Why does August become obsessed with the idea that...