The Old Willis Place: A Ghost Story

How does Mary Downing Hahn use “Dee Dee” (Lissa’s diary) as a means of exposition throughout the novel? Is the story improved by the inclusion of Lissa’s perspective? Why or why not?

What are some ways in which Hahn hints at Diana and Georgie being ghosts before the reveal? Include examples from the text.

Diana often finds herself thinking Lissa is “a girl like herself” (43). In what ways are Diana and Lissa, despite their one obvious difference, similar?

. Lissa’s teddy bear Tedward changes ownership throughout the novel. Describe the significance of the bear in tracing Lissa and Georgie’s relationship.

What are some parallels between Diana and Georgie’s new read—Lissa’s copy of Lassie Come Home—and The Old Willis Place itself?

Explain the significance of secrets in the novel. In what ways does keeping secrets help build friendships? In what ways does it hurt these friendships?

The theme of forgiveness is present throughout the novel. Pick one instance in which a character forgives another and describe how it demonstrates their growth.

Although Diana initially wants to befriend Lissa, she realizes they can never truly be friends. Why does she change her mind? Include evidence from the text.