America's First Daughter

Patsy says she learned that a lie can protect loved ones. Provide examples in which she applies this principle over the course of the novel.

Several characters are obsessed with honor and reputation. Explain why reputation is important. 

Land means a variety of different things to the characters in the novel. Compare and contrast William and Tom’s views.

Explain what Monticello represents both materially and symbolically. Provide examples to support your conclusions. 

Jefferson talks about slavery as a wolf by the ears. What does this analogy mean? Discuss Jefferson’s relationship with Sally in this context.

Explore Tom’s relationship with Jefferson. How does Patsy’s sense of duty affect her marriage to Tom?

What strategy does Patsy employ in collecting her father’s papers? What is her ultimate agenda in undertaking the task? 

The overriding theme of the novel is the conflict between duty and happiness. How does Patsy fail or succeed in balancing the two?