Discussion Questions for Shooting the Moon
- What qualities does Jamie have that you like or dislike? Do you think you would want to be friends with her?
- How is life on an army base different then civilian life? Would you like to live on an army base? Why or why not?
- What are some of the reasons that TJ chooses to enlist in the army? Why is his father so upset about his decision?
- Describe Jamie and Private Hollister’s relationship. Why do you think he and Jamie became such close friends?
- Why does TJ choose to communicate with Jamie through photos instead of letters?
- Throughout the story, Jamie’s views on combat begin to change. What are some of the things that happen in the story to spur this change?
- Jamie’s father goes against protocol when he chooses to not to sign Private Hollister’s orders for deployment. Do you think this was fair? Why or why not? Are there times when it is okay to break the rules?
- What is the significance of the photos of the moon? Why do you think that Jamie takes pictures of the moon every day that her brother is missing?
- Do you know anyone who has been deployed to a war zone? If not, how do you think it would feel if someone you love were sent overseas to fight in a war?