Falling Over Sideways

Claire and her father used to play a game where he’d catch her. What significance does this game have in the novel?

Compare Regina, Ryder, and Roshni. How are they similar? How are they different? How do they evolve by the narrative’s end?

Do you think Mrs. Selinsky is at fault for smacking Claire’s hand? Do you think the scene’s resolution is fair? Why or why not?

Compare Claire’s mother, Grandma and Grandpa, and Gram. How does each family member help Claire and her father?

Why does Claire think her brother Matthew is perfect? Are there instances in the narrative where Matthew is obviously “not perfect?” Explain why Claire might overlook these and fixate on her jealousy instead.

How does Matthew deal with his father’s stroke? How does Claire deal with it? Which is the better approach? Explain.

Many nicknames appear in the narrative. Describe as many of these nicknames as you can, and explain why they are so important to the people who use them and the people whom they name.

Claire has many different kinds of teachers, ranging from overly nice to overly mean. Which are the most effective at getting her to learn something? Why?