How do gender roles impact the characters in the story? In what ways are the female characters in greater danger because of their gender identity?

What role does music play in the book? Compare the unscripted music of Briny on the river with the formal piano compositions of Mr. Sevier.

How is memory both a help and a hindrance for these characters? In what ways are they empowered by memory? In what ways are they hindered by it?

What role does social class play in the book? How are members of both the very elite and very poor locked into their station in life?

What role does faith or religion play in the book? Does the novel distinguish between organized religion and more personal ideas on faith?

How does addiction figure into the novel? For instance, what impact does adult drinking have on the child characters?

How does the book define family? What makes a family, and if separated, how can familial bonds endure?

How does the book present the experience of finding one’s self, especially via Avery’s narrative? What does one need to overcome or accept in order to achieve true self-actualization?