1. Janie is determined to clear Jonathan’s name despite her father’s warning to stay out of the legal issues surrounding the buggy accident. She feels torn between her yearning for justice for Jonathan and her obedience to her father. Have you ever felt compelled to go against your family in order to do something you believed was important?
2. At the beginning of the story, Jonathan is convinced he’s too old for Janie; however, his feelings about that change throughout the story. What do you think causes his feelings to change?
3. Jonathan came to Pennsylvania for a long visit with his grandparents after his girlfriend betrayed him. Were you ever betrayed by a close friend or loved one? How did you come to grips with that betrayal? Were you able to forgive that person and move on? If so, where did you find the strength to forgive?
4. Timothy, Janie’s father, does not approve of Janie and Jonathan’s friendship becoming something more. He’s concerned Jonathan will return to Maryland and break Janie’s heart, and he is convinced Jonathan is too old for her. He changes his opinion, however, near the end of the story. What do you think is the catalyst for Timothy’s change of heart?
5. Which character can you identify with the most? Which character seemed to carry the most emotional stake in the story? Was it Janie, Jonathan, Timothy, or someone else?
6. Janie’s heart is broken when her father forbids her from spending any time with Jonathan. She was certain she’d finally found her soul mate, and then she lost him. Think of a time when you felt lost and alone. Where did you find your strength? What Bible verses would help with this?
7. Jonathan realizes that he longs to move to Pennsylvania and start a new life with Janie. Have you ever longed to make a huge change in your life? If so, did you follow through with that change? How did your family and friends react? What Bible verses helped you with your choice?
8. What did you know about the Amish before reading this book? What did you learn?