Write an essay on the connection between Winger’s story and its epigraph. How does the epigraph suggest or hint at the story’s themes or character development?

Compare the culture of Pine Mountain with the culture on the island in Lord of the Flies by William Golding. What similarities do you see between the two? What differences? Are there similarities and differences in the themes of the two books?

Discuss the portrayal of teen sexuality and sexual identity in Winger. What messages does Smith imply about this topic? What messages are implied about gender and sexual orientation? Use evidence from the text to support your claims.