Discuss what precipitates Melinda’s skipping school and what she does.

Was being a child better than being a teenager? In what ways? In what ways is it better to be older? Why is it hard to be in between childhood and adulthood?

Analyze the reference to the symbols in The Scarlet Letter and how Melinda would adapt the letter “A.”

Discuss the dissolution of Melinda and Heather’s friendship and the effect it has on Melinda. What is the meaning of friendship?

Analyze the events and effects of Valentine’s Day on Melinda and the aftermath.

Melinda wishes her science teacher would teach them about love and betrayal instead of about the birds and the bees. Where do we learn about things like that? Can we learn about love from a book? Explain?

Discuss what happens when Melinda is placed in In-School Suspension. How would you react to this situation?

Analyze Mr. Freeman’s effect on Melinda, inside and outside the art class. Do you agree with his statement, “When people don’t express themselves, they die one piece at a time.”

Mr. Freeman tells his class, “You must walk alone to find your soul.” What does this mean? Is it true? What is a soul?

Mr. Freeman also says that “art is about making mistakes and learning from them.” What else is like this? Explain.

Examine Melinda’s self-image and her survival techniques after Heather’s rejection.

Examine Melinda’s revelation about the night of the party and its residual effect on her.