1.Build a profile of Naomi pre-amnesia.

2.Describe some of the “watershed” moments for Naomi --- times when she does not act like the girl she was --- for example, when she cuts her hair or quits yearbook. How are the actions defining who she will become?

3.Amnesia gives not only Naomi a second chance but also others in her life. Pick a character and examine how Naomi’s amnesia affects his/her life.

4.Why is the fact that Naomi is an orphan important? How does the author weave this theme throughout the story?

5.Explore the symbolism of Naomi’s being found as a baby in a typewriter case. How else are typewriters and books relevant to her story?

6.Photography is a recurring motif. How does it enrich the story?

7.Discuss the role of music throughout the book.

8.Compare and contrast Naomi and James.

9.Examine the scene in which Naomi’s memory returns. Why is it significant that it is

the French word for camera that seems to open the floodgates? Why are the twomemories Naomi recounts—and the individuals they involve—pivotal?

10.Read the prologue again. Speculate: Would Naomi have made some of the same choices/charges if she had not experienced amnesia?

11.What would you do with a second chance?