English

1. In the course of the book, Connor and Risa get separated from Lev, who travels for a time with another character. Why do you think Shusterman chose to split the narrative into two distinct threads? What do you think this achieves? How does this affect the evolution of the characters? To see different viewpoints. This allows Lev to get more time in the book when he’s with Cy-Fi and to also see his character change throughout the novel instead of being with Risa and Conner.

2. On p125 & 129  the novel touches on same-sex relationships. Has the attitude toward same-sex couples changed (for better or worse) in this futuristic society? Explain your response.  When Cy-Fi was talking about his family he mentioned his dads and when Lev heard that he was so surprised.

3. P130 begins our journey into understanding a little more about Cy-Fi. Through his character, what do you learn about the effects of unwinding on both the donor and receiver?  When Cy-Fi had a part of someone else's brain it would make him want to steal things. He wouldn’t do it himself but the part of the brain which wasn’t his he would steal things. He was also able to see things about the kid from the memory. 

4. What is the real reason Cy-Fi needs to get to Joplin, Mo? Pg 131 He wanted to try and find his birth mother. 

5. What is the significance of Connor holding in his anger around Roland? Pg 147  Risa told Conner to not try to get angry because if he did then him and Roland would likely fight till one of them dies. 

6. Connor's anger and lack of impulse control is often a problem for him, until he learns to control and channel his emotions. Do you ever feel like your impulses are stronger than your will? What strategies do you use to control your feelings? Do they work? Most of the time try to think of something positive to get your mind off it and get fresh air.

6. Define: fatigue & Kleptomaniac

Fatigue means overly tired.

Kleptomaniac means addicted to stealing.