Deception is a key motif in the novel, as various characters use aliases and falsehoods to advance their political causes. How does the novel explore the uses and costs of deception?

In a time before gender equality, Sophia takes on roles not typically allowed her sex. Explore her coming-of-age narrative through a feminist lens. What role does her gender play in her journey towards personal growth and fight for freedom?

Identify three symbols not explored in the guide and analyze their contribution to the novel’s larger themes. For example, what do red ribbons, the Kings Crown, or the sugarhouse represent, and how do they advance the novel’s explorations of key themes and ideas?

Compare and contrast Sophia’s and William’s characters. How do the siblings’ differences and similarities relate to their parallel fights for freedom? How is Sophia’s coming-of-age affected by her brother’s character, decisions, and fate?

Analyze the role of micro and macro settings to Sophia’s narrative. What moods do the New York City, print shop, or Archibald Kennedy house settings create? What do they illustrate about her character and journey?

In what ways is Sophia’s character arc a coming-of-age narrative? What are some of the common tropes and plot points of the genre that the novel utilizes?

Explore how Sophia’s relationship with John André impacts her. How does their connection help her to develop both emotionally and in terms of her goals and values? How do her views and feelings towards him change, or fail to change, over the course of the narrative?

Analyze Sophia’s story from a domestic and familial standpoint. How do these spheres impact Sophia’s sense of self? How do her dynamics with her family and sense of identity change over her character arc?