Milkweed (Discussion Director_Nina)

Last week my group and I started Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli. Since then we have read 70 pages. Also, this time I will be the Discussion Director. Here are the questions I have come up with regarding the novel:

1. Why does Jerry Spinelli (Author) begin the story with a 'memory'?

My Answer: I think the author began the story with a memory because he wanted to be respectful to all the people that died during the holocaust. Furthermore, I think that he also wanted the reader to be aware of what a horrible period that was how people lived or at least tried to live then.

My Groups Answer: Like myself, the rest of the group said the same thing. The author most likely wanted to remind everyone of what a terrible period that was and that we are lucky living in todays even thought, flawed world.

2. What does the flower which is tossed  at the tanks symbolize?

My Answer: The author most likely wanted to symbolize the desire of all people for peace as this is an important aspect.

My Groups Answer: The people, besides wanting peace might have also wanted to recognize all the people killed in the cold war as well as the fact that many families have lost their beloved ones due to power.

3. How are the Jackboots portrayed by the author?

My Answer: On one hand, the Jackboots are portrayed as different, and on the other, the protagonist of this novel, Misha, is afraid of them, but at the same time looks up at them as well.

My Groups Answer: Misha looks up at them, although at times is also scared of them.  Nonetheless, this question was debatable  within the group.

4. Why isn't Misha happy about the birthday cake and candles?

My Answer: From my perspective, Misha is not happy due to some bad memories that he is recalling when seeing the cake and candles.  Perhaps, something that he doesn't have, or something in his past that has happened that he was not too fond of.

Groups Answer: Misha is not happy to celebrate his birthday because it reminds him that he is getting older and with that there are different responsibilities. Further, that he is also reminded of something bad that has happened or even someone he lost or loved.

5. Why does Uri resist admitting  to having faith in something?

My Answer: Uri doesn't want to admit having faith in something because he wants to keep it to himself, or is afraid someone might judge him or treat him differently because of it.

My Groups Answer: Uri does not want to confess to having faith in something because he does not want to feel or seem weak.