1. The novel begins with Janice and Abel in a courtroom. If the verdict of their court case had been different, do you think their lives would have turned out differently? How?

2. What was the role of the interpreter in the court experience? How did the limited vocabulary of Janice and Abel effect the outcome?

3. Why was the sewing machine so important to Janice?

4. Janice received a bonus for sewing more than the usual quota of caps, and kept that money a secret from Abel. Do you think she was justified in keeping this secret? Why or why not?

5. At an early age Margaret is given the task of being the voice and ears for her family. How does this responsibility affect Margaret? How does her childhood compare with your own childhood?

6. Abel insisted on going to the deaf church, but Janice was reluctant to go. What were their reasons for having these different feelings?

7. When Bradley died, Margaret and Abel had very different reactions to his death. Why do you think they reacted so differently? With which reaction could you most identify?

8. During the Depression, when most people lost their jobs, Abel and Janice were able to keep theirs. Why do you think the author made this plot choice?

9. Margaret provided strong hints for a graduation present, but received something entirely different. How did this situation change her? Were you surprised at the gift that she did receive?

10. One of the main themes of the novel is communication. How does this theme affect the lives of the family members? In what ways has this theme affected your own life?

Created October 2005