Though When We Flew Away is intended for middle-grade audiences, some atrocities of the Holocaust are reported with brutal honesty. What stylistic aspect counterbalances these bluntly truthful passages? What is the effect of these two juxtaposing styles on the depiction of the Franks’ lives?

How does Anne initially think about New York and California? How does the symbolic value of these places change throughout the story?

Occasionally, the omniscient narrator reveals an event that the Franks have no way of knowing; for example, “The blue tea would be the last gift they ever received from their Omi in Basel, but they didn’t know it yet” (50). How do these instances of dramatic irony affect the overall tone?

Choose a time when Anne’s interactions outside the apartment make a strong impact on her; detail what she learns. Consider these scenes: the woman’s comments in the market; the young Jewish boy who is bullied; talking to the German soldier.

How do Anne’s changing peer relationships (from Sanne and Hanneli to Hello) represent her coming-of-age? What activities and events help to indirectly characterize these secondary characters?

Just like characters are static or dynamic, character relationships can be consistent or evolving. How does Anne’s relationship with her father show consistency? Based on textual evidence, which of Anne’s relationships evolves the most? How so? How does this process change her character?

When the call-up notification for deportation arrives, Anne assumes it is for her father. How is it ironic that the notification is for Margot instead? How does this irony impact Anne’s understanding of the oppression they are facing?

Anne notices magpies and storks in the novel. Considering her specific reactions to them, what might birds symbolize? Consider the significance of the novel’s title in your response.