The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• What is the author’s purpose in telling Sam’s story? What truths are revealed that can be applied in everyday life?
• Had you heard of the condition ocular albinism before reading the story? What did you find most compelling about Sam’s experience with the condition?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• In describing Sam’s early life, how does his experience with bullying shape him as an adult?
• How does the author highlight the truth that spirituality is a personal experience unique to everyone?
• Do you have friends like Mickie and Ernie? Discuss the value of having friends like these in life.
• What is the role of free will in life? Is Sam’s life a result of fate, destiny, or his choices?
• Family plays a significant role in Sam’s self-perception. How does a person’s experience in their family help or hinder their creation of an identity?

3. Societal and Cultural Context

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

• How does Sam’s experience in school reveal the deficiencies in public education to provide a safe learning environment for children with disabilities?
• What does the novel have to say about violence? How could the
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
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