Outlawed

When Ada was first accused of witchcraft, why did she not stay in Fairchild to advocate for her innocence? What forces were arrayed against her and why? Explain the reasons for her decision.

Discuss the character of News. How do race, gender, and sexuality intersect in her story? What themes does this character embody?

Is the Kid a good leader? Use textual evidence to support your answer.

Analyze the role Christianity plays in the novel—both its power to marginalize and its ability to inspire. What is the novel saying about faith?

Who or what is to blame for the accusations against Ada? Explain your reasoning.

Discuss the novel’s take on sexual desire. How is desire policed, repressed, normalized, and expressed in the world of the novel?

The Gang steals money from innocent people and sometimes kills them. Does the novel consider their criminality immoral? Why or why not?

Why does Ada leave the safety of the convent and the Gang? How do these communities ultimately fail her?