Gone

Track Sam’s character arc. How does he change as a person from before the FAYZ to after the FAYZ consumes their lives? How does Sam subvert or fit into classic superhero tropes? Cite textual evidence.

Sam states, “[...] there’s no line between freak and normal here. If you have the power, we’ll need you. If you don’t, we’ll need you” (410). What does this dialogue portray? What greater themes is Sam speaking to? Discuss the treatment of those with powers and those without prior to this point in the novel.

Analyze the author’s choice to write this novel in close third person with multiple characters. How does the ensemble cast function? For instance, how do their storylines connect, and how do they help each other grow? How do you think the book would read if it were told in first person from a secondary character like Quinn or Edilio instead? Examine how the voice, tone, and plot of the novel would be altered.

Which literary devices are used to create a dystopian science fiction work? For instance, how does Grant use worldbuilding, setting, characterization, foreshadowing, flashbacks, conflict, plot, and other elements to build a dystopia? Choose a favorite scene or chapter from the book and analyze the effectiveness of literary devices.

Overcoming fear is one of the significant themes. How do characters like Sam, Astrid, Pete, Quinn, Lana, and Jack deal with fear? Which fears do they face, and are they successful in channeling courage or not? Why do you think fear is a main motivator? Relate the characters’ terror to your own fears and stressful experiences. Use both textual evidence and personal experiences.

Though Quinn is Sam’s best friend, why do you think he betrays Sam and reports him to Caine’s side? Do you think Quinn redeems himself by the novel’s conclusion? Why or why not? Analyze Quinn’s growth and how he affects Sam.

Grant handles sensitive topics such as autism, bulimia, racism, adoption, and child violence in this novel. What literary devices does he use to portray these traumatic experiences? How effective or ineffective is his writing in conveying these concepts and their rippling effects? Think of Mary, Pete, Edilio, Caine, Sam, and Drake in particular.

Choose two characters to compare and contrast, such as Sam, Caine, Astrid, Quinn, Mary, or Lana, and their journeys. How do their differences and similarities affect the novel’s trajectory? Which character do you identify with most and why?