Words on Fire

Through book smuggling, Audra loses her biological family but is later taken in by a community of book smugglers. In what ways do Milda, Ben, Lukas, and Roze fill the roles of family members for Audra?

Nielsen incorporates an embedded narrative in the novel—the story of Rue. What kinds of lessons does Rue’s story teach Audra? How does storytelling allow Audra and Lukas to communicate indirectly with each other?

Audra initially describes herself as “a leaf that fluttered onto the water where even the breeze wouldn’t notice [her]” (8). How does Audra transform over the course of the novel to finally live up to her name?

Secrecy is crucial to the success of the smugglers. Choose at least two characters that carry significant secrets and discuss in what ways their secrecy is helpful or harmful.

Press and language bans are a major tool used by oppressive governments as a means of control. Compare and contrast the Lithuanian press ban and its response with another historical language ban.

The life of a smuggler is an uncertain and dangerous one. How does Nielsen create a suspenseful environment?

Standing up for justice often requires bravery. Choose at least two characters and compare the moments in which they showed bravery.

Audra initially resents that “a stupid, ordinary book” (54) costs her so much. What changes her relationship with books, and how does that affect her future decisions?