How would you describe the overall tone of the novel? What techniques does Citro use to achieve this tone?

The novel is often funny, like when Marshmallow inadvertently uses his fire breathing capability to roast a marshmallow. How does Citro balance comedic and serious or suspenseful scenes?

Zoey uses hyperbole and rhetorical questions in her narration. What other literary devices appear in her speech patterns? What do they suggest about her character?

Sassafras functions as a character rather than just a pet in the novel. What narrative techniques does Citro use to characterize him? How is his relationship with Zoey important to the plot or her character?

Why is the novel’s rural setting important? How does the barn reflect the novel’s tone and themes?

Because the novel is illustrated, characters’ appearances are well-defined. How does that affect the experience of reading the novel?

The novel centers caregiving. Compare the caregiving exhibited by Zoey and her parents. What do they learn about each other and themselves?

How does Citro build suspense and heighten reader interest?