1. Why has Hannah and Carl's marriage deteriorated?

2. What scares Hannah about motherhood?

3. In its review of the novel, Chicago Tribune Books said: "The death of her mother when Hannah was 12, and the fact that she then mothered her younger sisters, have shaped her in ways obvious and deeply hidden." What are these ways? How have they shaped her?

4. Why does Hannah decide to terminate the pregnancy without telling Carl of her decision? What is she trying to accomplish?

5. What makes Erica's and Hannah's relationship work? What is Hannah able to do for Erica that she can't do with her husband or sister?

6. What had Carl hoped would happen if Hannah had a child? Why is this child so important to him?

7. How has Penny's parentage -- her absent mother and unknown father -- affected her feelings on motherhood? Why is she able to do what her grandmother can't -- to see all sides of the abortion issue?

8. Why do you think Delia insists on calling Penny "sister," instead of treating her like a daughter?

9. Is Dr. Bill really in love with Penny, or is he in love with what she represents to him? What does he find attractive about her?

10. In its review of the novel, The Austin Chronicle wrote: "It's nearly impossible to present an even and balanced view of both sides of the abortion debate ... Sharon Oard Warner has managed the feat of objectivity." Do you agree or disagree? Why?