In your opinion, which characters in the book show the most courage? Consider different types of challenges the characters faced. Explain in detail with references to the text.

What details does the author use to differentiate between Eddie and Sam?

How does Jess Marlowe mature and change over the course of the book?

Research the Cowlitz people, who have lived in the Washington area for thousands of years. How do they regard the mountain? What broader relevance does this information have for the story as a whole?

Take some time to learn more about seismology. What research does Dr. Morales, the local expert on volcanoes, perform to better understand Mount St. Helens? How accurate is the author’s depiction of a seismologist’s responsibilities?

How does Jess solve the mystery of the “Skeleton Woman”? Why does she feel a positive connection to this person?

Is Dr. Morales a round or flat character? Explain your answer.

Research the Cascade Mountain range and compare Mount St. Helens to two other major mountains in this chain. How is it similar or different to these mountains in geography, appearance, and level of volcanic activity, and how accurate is the author’s depiction of this region?