Madeline Hill is the strongest influence in Sam’s life, but his father also plays a significant role. How do each of his parents love him differently but work together to raise Sam? How do they each influence Sam’s character arc?

Was attending Catholic school the best path for Sam? How might his life have gone differently if he attended public school?

Analyze the role of the nuns in Sam’s coming-of-age journey. How does this contrast with the male authorities in his life such as Father Brogan and the basketball coach?