Nineteen Minutes

Josie Cormier and Peter Houghton were friends at one point. Explain how they became friends, including the flashbacks that flesh out their friendship, and then explain how they stopped being friends. What happens between the two by the novel’s end?

Peter experiences bullying from a young age. Detail Peter’s experience with bullying, from his first day of kindergarten until the day he goes on a rampage. Give examples from the text.

Compare Alex Cormier and Lacy Houghton. What are their parenting styles? How are they similar, and how are they different? Are they any clues that might explain the outcomes of their children?

Explain the prosecution’s case in detail. What evidence does Diana Leven present to explain that Peter was a cold-blooded killer?

Explain the defense’s case in detail. What evidence does Jordan McAfee present to try and prove that Peter is a victim of bullying?

Who are the witnesses called in the case? What side does each testify for and what is the outcome of their testimony?

Matt and Josie’s relationship looks perfect from the outside. Using the text, detail what revelations the narrative gives to highlight how Josie, too, was being bullied in her relationship with Matt.

Many people blame Peter’s parents for his actions. Using the text, can you make a case for this?