The relationship between Jackie, Cole, and Alex is an important plot point in the text. Compare and contrast Jackie’s relationship with Cole vs. Alex and explain how these relationships facilitate different aspects of Jackie’s personal development.

What lessons does Jackie learn about grief and that enable her personal growth to occur? What setbacks does she experience on the path to this development?

Home and family are important concepts within the text, with the Walter house serving as a symbol of home and belonging. How does Jackie’s concept of home and family develop throughout her time with the Walters, and how does her definition of home and family change from the beginning to the end of the text?

How does the author develop Cole as a character? While at first, he seems shallow and arrogant, how does the author illustrate Cole’s depth as a person, especially in his interactions with Jackie?

Describe the importance of Jackie’s relationship with the other Walter boys, such as Nathan and Danny. What role do these brothers play in the narrative, and what do her relationships with them teach her?

Compare and contrast the two settings in the text: New York City and the Walters’ ranch in Colorado. How do these settings shape the text and how do they shape Jackie as a character?

What strategies does Jackie use in an effort to heal without confronting her grief? How effective are these strategies, and what negative effects do they have?

Jackie often describes the Walter household as disorganized and chaotic, and yet there are many moments of fun and connection. How does chaos or disorder serve as both a threat to Jackie’s sense of stability and an opportunity for growth?