The Summer Book

Analyze the use of symbolism. What symbols appear in each story, and what do they represent? Are any of the symbols repeated in multiple vignettes? How and why?

Compare and contrast the age-related restrictions of Grandmother and Sophia. In what ways are their limitations similar? What are their unique restrictions? How do their restrictions impact the other themes in the text?

Discuss the settings used throughout the collection. How does using multiple settings impact the plot, characters, and themes? What are the benefits of using multiple settings? The challenges? How is each setting developed?