Swallowing Stones

Swallowing Stones was published in 1997. How does the novel reflect the teen culture of the late ’90s? Consider the media, movies, and television geared toward teenagers at that time.

What does it mean to swallow stones? How is this motif used throughout the novel to describe Michael’s struggles with his guilt and crumbling social life? Does Michael’s interpretation of what it means to swallow stones change over time?

Denial plays an important role in both Jenna and Michael’s story arcs. How does each character’s denial manifest, and why does each character seek to hold on to their denial as long as possible?

Why is the Ghost Tree significant? Do you think it represents different things to Michael and Jenna, or do you think they both sought the same thing when they sought out the tree on the same night?

How is Amy’s reputation used against her in the novel? Consider how characters like Joe, Darcy, and Michael treat her. Does Amy’s awareness of her reputation change the way she interprets the intentions of those around her?

Joe is shown to be an amoral character, who objectifies women, drinks, and gets in trouble with the law. How does Joe’s reputation impact the way the police see him? Do you think the police would have treated Joe differently if Joe was a popular track star like Michael?

What do you believe will happen to Michael after he confesses to Jenna? Do you believe a jury would sentence Michael to prison? Do you think Jenna will forgive Michael? Will Michael still go to a nice college?

How might Swallowing Stones be a different story if written in modern times? Consider things like technological changes from the late ’90s to the present, as well as the ways American gun culture has changed.