Just Listen

Track Annabel’s character arc throughout the novel. How does she change from a young girl before the sexual assault, after it, and by the end of the novel? How does she “come of age” in the story? Cite textual evidence.

Though Sophie is Annabel’s best friend, why do you think she doesn’t believe Annabel in the moments after the sexual assault with Will? Analyze how Sophie’s character affects Annabel’s later decisions and actions.

Imagine if this story featured dual points of view from Annabel and Owen. How would Owen’s perspective differ from Annabel’s? Choose one chapter from the novel and rewrite it from Owen’s point of view. How does your rewritten chapter change the tone, voice, and plot of the novel now that it’s told by Owen?

Conflict occurs often in the story, such as person vs. self and person vs. person. Which conflict in the story is most poignant to you and why? What literary devices, such as flashbacks, imagery, and internal monologue, does Dessen use to showcase conflicts?

Appearances not representing reality is one of the book’s underlying themes. In what ways do Annabel, Whitney, and other characters show an inaccurate portrayal of themselves, and for what purpose? Why do you think people show a “fake” version of themselves or harbor secrets? You may also discuss settings, such as the Greenes’ glass house. Use both textual evidence and personal experiences in your answer.

Managing anger is an important aspect of Owen’s personality, and he states, “Anger’s not bad. […] It’s human. And anyway, just because someone’s upset doesn’t mean they’ll stay that way” (151). Why do you think he says this? Do you agree or disagree with this idea and why? Are your experiences with anger and “freaking out” closer to Annabel’s or Owen’s?

Dessen handles sensitive, triggering topics like rape, eating disorders, anger, and depression throughout this novel. What literary devices does she use to portray these traumatic experiences? How effective or ineffective is her writing in conveying these concepts and their rippling effects on the characters? Think of Annabel, Whitney, Grace, Owen, and Will in particular.

How do sibling relationships function in the novel? Why do you think Dessen decided to have so many characters, particularly three female siblings, in this novel? Compare Kirsten, Whitney, and Annabel and each of their journeys in the book. Which sister do you identify with most and why?