Throughout the novel, the characters grow and develop both in interpersonal relationships and in their own motives and personalities. Describe the growth of the characters in the novel. How do the characters first meet? What are their reactions to one another? How do the friendships in the novel develop and change? How do the characters’ personalities change? What new responsibilities do they take on? Do you think the novel’s theme about Ambivalence Toward Relationships still holds true for the characters? What details demonstrate the theme of Coming of Age?

Teaching Suggestion: Because the question refers to multiple characters over the course of the novel, it may be daunting for some students. It may be beneficial to break the question into smaller parts for students to analyze. You might also ask the questions one at a time and allow students time to think and write their thoughts on paper in brief bulleted phrases or sentences before discussing each question.