A List of Things That Didn't Kill Me by Jason Schmidt

[Emily]

1. What did you think of Jason’s relationship with his father? Does this relationship affect the way that Jason thinks about himself? How?

2. Violence/abuse is a consistent theme in the book. How did you feel about the violence/abuse Jason encountered in his life? How do you think this shaped him as he grew up?

3. What did you think of Jason’s relationships with his friends/girlfriends (Eddie, Ryan, Brandon, Marti, Alexis, Maria, Meadow)? Why do you think it was so hard for Jason to make and keep friends?

4. Towards the end of the book, Jason’s father asks for his forgiveness. Jason doesn’t know what to do at first, but ends up forgiving him. Do you think he did the right thing even though it wasn’t what he wanted?

5. When Jason approaches Brandon about his relationship with Maria, Brandon calls Jason a “user”. Do you think this is true? Is Jason really more like Luke Skywalker than Han Solo?

6. How did Jason change throughout the story? What were the big turning points in his life?

7. What role did Frank play in Jason’s transformation? Do you think Frank is a good role model? Can you think of anyone who has changed your life for the better?

8. Do you think this memoir is effective in telling Jason’s life story? Can you think of any stories from your own life that shaped who you are today?

9. Did you enjoy this book? Why or why not?