The Lottery Rose

How does Georgie come to understand friendship? Discuss Timothy’s role in Georgie’s journey of learning to trust others.

Discuss the theme of resilience in the story. How do characters like Georgie and Mrs. Harper persevere through and overcome adversity?

Consider Georgie’s response to his abuse and neglect, particularly his issue with starting fires and the school’s response to his behavior. How might his teachers and administrators respond differently? In what ways does the story expose the difficulties outsiders face in helping vulnerable children?

How does the author use vivid sensory language to relay the depths of Georgie’s physical pain? In what way does the hiding and suppression of his physical suffering increase Georgie’s mental anguish?

Discuss the two chapters written from Robin’s point of view. Why did the author make this choice? Does it add or detract from the story?

Examine Georgie’s love for performance in both singing and theater. Explain how performing in front of people, despite his reluctance to trust others, is cathartic for him.

Analyze the novel’s treatment of the importance of women in children’s lives. How do the male mentors in Georgie’s life also change him?

How does the novel expose problems within Child Protective Services and the foster care system? Is Georgie’s fate of landing in a school with those who care for him realistic or not?