A Spool of Blue Thread

Blue paint appears at the end of the narrative in a comical way. Explain the story behind the blue paint and what its significance is to the narrative.

Describe Red and Abby Whitshanks’ children. How are they similar? How are they different?

There are several connections made between the Whitshanks and their house. Using examples from the text, detail how the lives of the Whitshanks are enmeshed in the “life” of their house.

There are four generations of Whitshanks. What are some similarities between the generations? What are the differences?

Denny is the proverbial black sheep of the family. Can you pinpoint reasons that might have led to this? Make an argument both for and against his contrarian nature.

Many characters are concerned with keeping up appearances. List some of these characters and explain how—and why—they keep up appearances.

Linnie Mae Whitshank compares her younger relationship with Junior to Romeo and Juliet. Describe this relationship. How is it similar to the fictional one? How is it different?

Two main stories make up the Whitshank history. What are these stories, and why are they so problematic?