Rooftoppers

Discuss the author’s references to food in Rooftoppers. What purpose(s) does it serve in Sophie’s quest?

In the novel, music figures as a motif, metaphor, and simile. Cite examples of Charles and Sophie comparing things to “music.” How do these relate to the book’s themes?

In many myths and stories, birds function as omens, usually not good ones. Is this the case in Rooftoppers? Discuss the novel’s use of bird imagery.

From an early age, Sophie has a tendency to break dishes. How does this foreshadow later events and develop the story’s themes? What else does Sophie break throughout the story?

Late in the novel, Sophie observes that “everyone starts out with some strange in them” and that many don’t “keep it” (208). How do the novel’s events and characters bear this out?

Both Miss Eliot and Mr. Lille (the music shop assistant) are very vocal in their opinions, especially their notions about women. Compare and contrast Miss Eliot’s criticisms of Sophie with Mr. Lille’s remarks about Sophie’s mother.

Charles tells the police clerk not to “underestimate” girls or children. Discuss some ways in which the child characters show more ability and resourcefulness than the adults.

On the crossing to France, Charles soothes Sophie by referring to the waves and wind as a “murmuration.” Discuss the characters’ use of language, books, and/or names as a sort of verbal magic to mold reality to their wishes.