Answer in complete sentences on a separate sheet of paper.

1. Why do you think that Joel didn't refuse to go with Tony? What do you think would have happened if he had said, "I'm not going"?

2. Do you think Joel could have stopped Tony from swimming on the river? Do you think he tried hard enough?

3. Why did Tony react the way he did when Joel said, "At least my dad doesn't go around hitting kids with a belt"?

4. Why didn't Joel realize that Tony was in trouble? What made Joel realize that Tony was definitely not hiding? Why did this take so long?

5.  Do you think that Joel should feel guilty for his friend's death? Was Tony responsible for his own fate? Explain.

6.      What would you have done in Joel's position? Where would you have gone? Why? Who could you ask for help?

7.     Do you think Joel really smells as bad as he thinks he does? Why is he so concerned about this?

8.     Joel's attitude toward Bobby changes as they deliver papers and when they arrive home. Explain the changes that you see and tell why you think this happen.

9. What do you think of the conversation that Joel and his father had at his bedside that night? Do you think Joel's father was justified in trying to explain away some of Joel's guilt?