Keeping 13

How does the novel use shifts in tone to convey thematic and character development? How does the tone shift as the narrative perspective moves from Shannon to Johnny? How does the tone shift as each protagonist grows and changes? Use specific examples to explain your thinking.

Identify one internal conflict and one external conflict in the novel. Trace these conflicts throughout the text, examining whether and how they are resolved. What theme is conveyed by their resolutions or lack thereof?

What kinds of communities exist in the novel? How do characters forge their own communities when their families and other support networks fail them? Use at least two literary elements in your analysis.

Shannon blames her mother for failing to protect her and her siblings from their father, while Darren believes that their mother is a victim of their father’s abuse. How do they reconcile these opposing views, and what do they learn about themselves and each other in the process?

What role does humor play in the novel? Cite at least three specific scenes and analyze the impact they have on the tone, characters, and at least one theme in the novel.

How does this novel both fulfill and subvert conventional expectations of story structure? How does it comment on these expectations—particularly in the resolution (or lack thereof)? Discuss important literary elements—such as theme, tone, conflict, and characterization—in your answer.

Compare and contrast the relationships of Johnny and Shannon and Joey and Aoife in the novel. What common themes are conveyed by both relationships?

How does Johnny’s privilege impact who he is as a person in the novel? How does he use that privilege to his benefit and in what ways does that privilege hinder him?