Along for the Ride

How does Auden’s definition of success change in the novel? Is she less focused on success at the end than at the beginning? How does Dessen convey Auden’s attitude toward success?

By the novel’s conclusion, Auden believes that people should be given not just second chances, but as “many as you might need to get it right” (375). Do you agree or disagree with her belief? Why or why not? Potential topics to broaden your thinking about multiple chances include conflicts among friends and family, academic pursuits, sports, capital punishment, driver’s tests, jobs, etc.

Auden’s mother, Victoria, doesn’t show her love in the affectionate, open ways others may with their children. Victoria’s “cold, hard shell” protected her from delving too deeply into emotions, but Auden and she are learning the “emotional talking thing” to become closer (365). How do you show affection to others? What happens if love languages differ between those in a relationship, and how can they compromise?

Auden’s father Robert states that sometimes “love isn’t enough” (301). Why do you think he says this? Do you agree or disagree with this statement and why?

Which theme or moral from the novel do you think is most significant? What literary devices does Dessen use to portray this theme? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

Dessen introduces the topic of change throughout the novel, usually through her use of dialogue. Though Victoria believes people don’t change, Eli believes the opposite. Do you think that people can/do change? Why or why not? Use examples from the text and personal examples to defend your answer.

Maggie acts as a catalyst for Auden to learn not to judge harshly and to expand her mindset about femininity. What male and female stereotypes exist in our society? How do these stereotypes affect you and larger societal beliefs? You may consider clothing, expectations for personalities, athletics, careers, etc.

Being judgmental is one underlying theme present in the book. As Auden misjudged Maggie and Heidi initially, have you ever misjudged or misunderstood someone? Did your judgments prove to be correct or not and why?