Summer of Riley

Grace and Dorothy are William’s support system throughout the challenging events he faces. Discuss when and why they disagree with William and how their honesty helps him. Analyze how they help him accomplish his aim of saving Riley.

William wants to save Riley’s life, but not everyone in the story agrees with his perspective. Do you think Riley deserved to be euthanized? Why or why not? Explain your opinion with references to the text.

While William and Peachie are on opposing sides of the conflict centering around Riley, they are similar in many ways. Compare and contrast their characters, tracing their similarities and differences.

The novel is narrated in the first person, from William’s point of view. Analyze how this method of narration develops his characterization and makes him a sympathetic character. Use specific examples from the text as you develop your answer.

Did your opinion of Ellis change by the end of the novel? Why or why not? Reference the text when writing your answer.

Compare and contrast this text with another work with similar themes. Options could include A Mango-Shaped Space by Wendy Mass, Best Friends by Jacqueline Wilson, or Ella Unleashed by Alison Cherry.

Analyze the role that the townspeople and community play in the novel. How are they a source of hope as well as a challenging opposing force to William’s plans for Riley?

What do you think will happen next in William’s life? Write another chapter for this book set after the events of the story. Try to mimic the style and voice of the original novel in your work.