The two opening sections of the book cover the beginnings of Woodson’s life, and also establish some of the book’s central themes. One of these themes is the meaning of home, and the pull of different homes in one family.
Pick 2 of the 3 questions:
1) Jacqueline has a complicated bond with the South, where she spends her early childhood. What do you think she loves about it, and what do you think she finds difficult? Explain your answer.
2) Much about Woodson’s Jehovah’s Witness upbringing is constricting and isolating. She must follow a strict schedule of Bible studies, and cannot participate in many social activities and rituals. Do you think that there is anything about her religious upbringing that she appreciates, even so? How might it have shaped her identity?
3) How is Jacqueline different from Odella, her older sister? How are they similar? How do you think that the differences between them give Jacqueline strength?