Rachel’s selective mutism spans the majority of the novel. What is the significance of her choice to be silent? Why was it a right for her to remain silent throughout the novel?

The students in Mr. Fabiano’s class write several times during the day. Why is it important that the students write? What impact does the students’ writing have on the plot?

Would the novel be different if there were more students as part of the story? Why do you think the author only focuses on a few of the students in Mr. Fabiano’s class?