1. Investigate the political landscape of 1793. Why was Philadelphia the capital during this period? Where did Congress convene? What issues were government officials addressing?

2. Examine the real-world effects of the yellow fever outbreak in the United States in 1793. What are the causes of yellow fever? Is the disease still present today? What medical advancements emerged from this catastrophe? How would this illness be treated in the early 21st century?

3. Animals often play significant roles throughout history. What types of pets did Philadelphians have in the late 1790s? Besides companionship, what other purposes did they serve? What animals were present in the city that were not pets, and what roles did they fulfill?

4. The narrative is set in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in 1793. Compare and contrast Philadelphia of 1793 with the modern city. Describe its layout and traditions. What businesses supported the culture then and now? How did the city transform after the epidemic to become what it is today?

5. Anderson mentions a hot air balloon in her story. Research the event that took place on January 9, 1793. What makes this event significant? Did it influence the development of hot air balloons as we know them today?

6. Compare and contrast the coffeehouses of the late 18th century. What roles did they serve? What food and beverages did they offer? How do they compare to contemporary coffeehouses?

7. Describe the medical community and treatments available in 1793. What qualifications were required, if any? How did these factors contribute to the spread and fatality of the disease? What positive outcomes emerged from the tragedy?

8. Polly, Mattie's childhood friend, spent time at the blacksmith's shop, admiring the blacksmith's son. Research the history of blacksmithing. What roles did blacksmiths play? Is blacksmithing still practiced today? How has the craft evolved since the 1700s?