Too Big a Storm Topics

Do you have to write a report on this book for class? Here are some questions to think about and explore in your paper. Many of the questions came from other teens who had to write reports on Too Big a Storm. Answering even one of the questions will add something to your book report because no one else will have answered it in the very same way. And don't forget to check out the titles I suggest at the bottom because doing some related reading always impresses teachers! Don't be offended that many of them look like “picture books.” They're all excellent, loaded with informantion, and quick reads. Good luck.

WAR and PEACE

“How could she go protest the war in Vietnam when her boyfriend was hurt there and her brother was killed?” —Kara, age 15

1. What is patriotism?

2. Why was Mark uncomfortable at the demonstration?

3. Some of Sally's friends used violence in their protest. Why would someone make that choice? Were they terrorists?

FAMILY and BELONGING

“It’s like Brady and Sally wanted to swap mothers. My best friend and I talk about doing that. It would be so much better that way.” —Tess, age 14

1. Why did Brady and Sally get upset when their mothers met and got along?

2. Mark has no traditional family but he belongs many places. What does he do to make connections?

RELIGION and ART

“I’m an atheist too and I like how she found her spirit at the art museum.” —Sarah, age 17.

1. Is Brady an atheist?

2. What role does art (and music) play in the story?

THE SIXTIES

“Everyone protested a lot then, didn't they?” —Jaundell, age 15

1. What was the connection between the civil rights movement and the anti-war movement?

2. Both Brady and Sally opposed the war in Vietnam and both were concerned about social justice. Why do you think they chose different ways to act on their beliefs?

RELATED READING

If you're doing a report and want to go deeper than just talking about Too Big a Storm, there are many terrific books about the 60s and the Vietnam war. Two of my current favorites are 10,000 Days of Thunder by Philip Caputo and A Dream of Freedom by Diane McWhorter. Both of these books are fast reads and have a lot of information and a lot of great photographs. Also, don't forget to explore the subjects of art and music—both are an important part of Too Big a Storm too. A couple of fun books on female artists are Runaway Girl: The Artist Louise Bourgois by Jan Greenberg and Margaret Bourke White by Susan Goldman Rubin.