Compare and contrast Gilbert’s relationships with Becky and Mrs. Betty Carver. What do they mean to him in terms of escaping his situation? What impact does each relationship have on Gilbert’s motivations, choices, and emotions?

Gilbert feels threatened by the changes that businesses like Food Land and Burger Barn bring to Endora. Why does he feel this way? How does this relate to his feelings about his hometown? With this in mind, do you think Gilbert would have left Endora if his family situation allowed for it after high school? Why or why not?

Throughout the novel, Gilbert refuses to eat dinner with his family or eat at Burger Barn, yet he eats to excess on a picnic with Mrs. Carver. Describe his relationship with food. What impact does his mother have on this relationship? Does Amy’s fear that she is becoming obese affect Gilbert’s feelings toward food? Will his attitude change after the death of his mother? Why or why not?