MOMENTOUS EVENTS
IN THE LIFE OF A CACTUS

• DISCUSSION QUESTIONS •

1 This book is told in the first person, from Aven’s point of view. How do you think the story would change if it were told from another character’s point of view? Some characters to consider are Zion, Lando, Trilby, Connor, and Joshua.

2 Why do you think the book is titled Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus? What happens in the story that Aven considers momentous?

3 Aven has very diverse interests: horseback riding, guitar, soccer, and now punk music. What are your interests? How do you share your interests with others?

4 Before reading the story, would you have thought that a person without arms could do all of the things that Aven can do? What does that tell you about making assumptions about the capabilities of others?

5 Consider how you talk about people with disabilities. Why do you think it’s important to use “person-first” language?

6 How do you react when you see a person with a visible disability? How do you think people with disabilities would want you to react? What makes you feel welcomed when you meet someone?

7 Are disabilities always visible? What kinds of challenges do you think a person with a hidden disability might have?

8 Why do you think Aven is so determined to find out if Henry has any family? What makes people family?

9 Aven discovers a love of punk rock in the story. What do you think it means to be punk rock?

10 What do you think you should do if someone won’t stop verbally bullying you or someone else? Do you think Aven handled the situation well? What can you do to be an upstander?

11 Which characters in this book experienced personal growth? How did they change? Were there any characters who didn’t appear to grow or change?

12 Did reading this book change your opinions or perspectives on anything? How?

13 It was difficult for Aven to learn how to ride and jump a horse. Is there something in your life you’re struggling to learn? What steps can you take to tackle it?

14 Aven has a rough start to high school, but she’s able to get through it largely due to supportive friends. How do your friends support you during tough times? How can you support your friends?

15 Connor has to forgive his father in order to start rebuilding their relationship. Can you think of a time in your life when you’ve had to forgive someone or needed forgiveness from someone? How did forgiveness make you feel?