57 pages • 1-hour read
Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus
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Essay Topics
The first story about Aven is titled Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus. This sequel is named Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus. Why do you think “insignificant” has changed to “momentous?” How has Aven changed from the first book to this one? What events occur in the novel that Aven thinks are momentous? Why does she think of them that way?
What does Aven mean by “politics” of high school? How do the politics affect her?
Why does Aven distrust Zion’s opinion about Joshua’s character? Was she right or wrong not to trust him? How does Aven’s lack of trust make Zion feel? Why does Zion tell Lando about Aven’s humiliation, and that she likes him? Was it more important to tell Lando or keep Aven’s secret? How do the two friends repair their trust in each other? Explain your answer.
Why do you think Aven is curious about finding her birth father? What reasons does she give for wanting to find him, and what reasons does she give for not wanting to find him? Why do you think she decides to use the DNA kit to find Henry’s family instead of her birth father? What does Aven learn about family?
Why does punk rock music become so important to Aven? What does punk rock music represent? What is the punk philosophy of life? How does punk rock music influence Aven’s feelings about herself?
How does the motif of Costumes influence the way Aven develops relationships? Why are costumes important to Aven?
How does Aven change and grow over the course of the novel? What things does she learn about herself and others? Select two other characters and describe how they also gained new personal understanding. Consider Zion, Josephine, Connor, and Henry. Describe one character who did not experience personal growth. Why do you think they did not change or grow?
At the end of the novel, Aven refuses to let “the Man” “keep [her] down” (305). Who is “the Man?” How has “the Man” man prevented Aven from believing in herself? Use evidence from the text to support your answer.
Why does Joshua pick on Aven and Zion? How do Joshua’s actions and words make Aven and Zion feel? Do you think Aven did the right thing in telling Coach Devin about Joshua’s bullying behavior? Why or why not?
Does Aven let her armlessness define her? What are some of the physical and emotional challenges Aven faces every day with her armlessness? How can people with arms be more inclusive to Aven? How can readers be more empathetic and accepting of others with disabilities?
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