Discussion Questions/Journal Writing

1.  Matthew and Marissa choose to not tell their friends about the map.  Why do you think they make that decision?  Who would you tell about the map and why?

2.  Marissa enjoys writing in her journal.  Why do you think this is important to her?  What do you like to write about in your journal?  Why is writing important to you?

3.  Matthew gets a stomachache during the tram ride when David is screaming.  Why do you think this happened?  Have you ever been uncomfortable or embarrassed when something like that has happened?

4.  The twin's parents are happy to allow them to follow the map's requests.  What do you think you and your parents would do?

5.  Matthew and Marissa leave their friends to go on the trip to Albuquerque, NM.  How would you feel if you had to leave?  What would you miss most about leaving your friends, home, school, and neighborhood?

6.  The twins helped their parents keep David busy at the balloon field by pointing out the balloons and labeling them.  Tell about a time when you helped someone.  How did it feel to help someone else?

7.  The twins often have to be patient and wait for something when their parents are tending to David.  When are you asked to be patient?  How does it feel to have to wait?

8.  Have you ever traveled in an RV like the twins do?  Where did you go and what was the experience like?  or  Where would you like to travel to and who would you take with you?  Why?

9.  When Matthew and Marissa think they won't be going to the Balloon Glow, they are very disappointed.  Tell about a time when you were disappointed.  What made you feel better?

10.  Write a story about a magical or mysterious map.  What does the map do?  Who finds it?  What does it look like?

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