Stepping on the Cracks

Elizabeth believes the war is just and that sometimes people must fight to stop bad things from happening. Stuart believes that war and killing are morally wrong and that people should not fight to resolve differences. Discuss their points of view. Do you agree with Elizabeth or Stuart? Or is each character partially right? Explain your answer.

Gordy has a hard time accepting help from others. Why do you think this is the case? What blocks people from helping Gordy? Why does Gordy finally accept help, and how does he feel about it?

How does the war affect each member of Margaret’s family? How does it impact their daily lives and relationships? How does each family member cope with Jimmy’s death?