1. Discuss the contrast between the way Dan speaks to Jemma and the way he speaks to everyone else. Why do you think he speaks to Jemma the way he does? Which voice do you think is the “true” Dan?
2. What makes Sarah a good caregiver for Jemma?
3. How did you feel toward Richard? Did you suspect he might be guilty? Did you hope that he would get together with Sarah in the end?
4. Finn, like Jemma, faces communication challenges. What role do you think he plays in the story?
5. Why do you think Olivia acts the way she does? How do you think her story might continue?
6. Can you imagine Jodi’s expectations about meeting Jemma and why she reacts the way she does when they first meet?
7. When a passerby offers Jemma’s caregiver money, why do you think Jemma feels so upset?
8. Has the book changed the way you feel about the life or experiences of someone who can’t communicate or move independently?
9. Do you know anyone who has difficulty with communication or uses alternative means of communication like sign language or AAC? Can you think of any ways in which you could support them more?
10. Have you ever felt burdened with someone else’s secret and felt that you wanted to or needed to share the secret?
11. Sarah was two-timing Dan. Do you think she deserved what happened to her?
12. How do you think Jemma’s life will be changed by the events of the story going forward?
13. Why do you think Jemma’s foster parents decided to foster her and the other children?
14. Imagine Jemma’s family going on vacation. What would they need to think about to ensure all needs are met and they have a good trip?
15. What was the most moving moment of the story for you?