Use the following questions to help you explore your thoughts and feelings about the pieces of literature you read. This list is not meant to cover all the issues that might concern you, and it should be used only as a starting point for exploratory writing or journal responses. Your own thoughts and feelings are always your best resource when responding to literature.

1. What were your feelings after reading the opening chapter(s) of this book? After reading half of the book? After finishing the book?
   
2. Did this book make you laugh? Cry? Cringe? Smile? Cheer? Explode? Explain your reaction.
   
3. What connections are there between the book and your own life? Explain.
   
4. What are the best parts of this book? Why? What are the worst parts of this book? Why?
   
5. What is the author saying about life and living through this book? Explain.
   
6. What parts of the book seem most believable? Why? What parts seem unbelievable? Why?
   
7. Do you like the ending of the book? Why or why not? Do you think there is more to tell? What do you think might happen next?
   
8. What do you feel is the most important word in the book? The most important passage? The most important element (an event, a character, a feeling, a place, a decision)? Why is it important?
   
9. In what ways are you like any of the characters? Explain.
   
10. Do any of the characters remind you of friends, family members, or classmates? Explain.
    
11. What character would you like to be in this book? Why? What personality traits of the character would you like to acquire? Explain.
    
12. What would you and your favourite character talk about in your first conversation? Begin the conversation.
    
13. So you think the title fits the book? Why?
    
14. What makes you wonder in this book? Why? What confuses you in this book? Why?
    
15. What came as a surprise in the book? Why?
    
16. Has this book helped you in any way? Explain.
    
17. How have you changed after reading this book? Explain.
    
18. How do you picture the author if this book? Why so you picture him or her in this way?
    
19. What questions would you like answered after reading this book?
    
20. Who else should read this book? Why? Who shouldn't read this book? Why?