Planet Earth Is Blue

What methods or strategies does the novel use to help readers relate to Nova? Why is it important for readers to relate to her?

What makes the Wests a good family for Nova? How do they differ from the other foster families that she has known?

How prevalent is ableism in Nova’s experience? What examples of ableism does she encounter? What other examples of ableism do people with other disabilities encounter? Include examples from the text and other sources.

Consider the possibility that the Challenger itself is symbolic. What does it symbolize to various characters in the novel? How do you know? Give examples from the text.

Who or what is Nova’s antagonist? Is it herself, another character, society, or someone or something else? Be sure to analyze and explain at least three reasons for your answer.

Francine gets angry with Mrs. Steele, suggesting that the entire Vezina family “slipped through the cracks.” What does she mean, and how has the social welfare system failed Nova, Bridget, and their mother? Research how commonly this occurs and the reasons why, citing evidence from various sources.

What is the novel’s mood, and what methods does Panteleakos use to create it? Is it consistent throughout, or does it change as the novel goes on?

How significant is the novel’s setting in the 1980s? Examine the Challenger catastrophe and then find two other meaningful ways in which the period setting contributes to the novel.