1. Compare Abby's life to the soap operas she watches religiously. Do you think her life could actually make a soap opera? What would it be called? Why?

2. Abby's family is, as described by her, "white trash". What would be a definition for white trash? Do you think Abby's family falls into this category? Why or why not?

3. What do you think would have happened if Jackson had turned out to be Stephanie's father? Write an alternate ending in which this is the case. Think about both Abby's and Jackson's reactions, and try to keep them in character.

4. Do you think Jackon made the right decision in going back to Africa so quickly? Should he have gone to college instead? Explain.

5. Cody and Abby have been best friends since before they can remember. Think about your best friend, and describe your relationship with them. Are you anything like Cody and Abby? Be descriptive.