1. How does Mai's concept of family change throughout the novel? Or does it? And if so, why or why not? Use specific examples.
2. This has been called a "coming of age" novel. How does Mai change from the girl she was when she fled to the girl who leaves the camp for the United States?
    Emotionally? Spiritually? Physically?
3. What part do you think "luck"plays in her survival? In what ways is she able to control her own destiny?
4. How does superstition influence her? What does Sang's ghost symbolize?
5. There are many images of water in the novel. What do you think water symbolizes?
6.Who or what is the antagonist in this story?
7. What role does the setting play?
8. What does Mai think her life in the U.S. will be? What do you think will happen to her?
9,Choose your favorite passage and share it, telling why you chose it.
10.Was the ending satisfying to you? Explain.
11.What is the most vivid part of the novel?
12.At what point did you get hooked?
13. Do you see any parallels between what Mai endured and what is happening in the world today?