1. Dallas Winston is a complex character who is both romantic and fiercely independent, yet in some ways, he is also repulsive. He can be cruel and dangerous, but he has a deep love for Johnny, the most gentle member of the gang. What is it that makes Ponyboy admire Dally? Is Dally's love and concern for Johnny enough to redeem him? Does his suicide change the reader's perception of him?

2. Explore the different perspectives on fighting presented in The Outsiders. Which viewpoints do you agree with? Which do you disagree with? Is there ever a justification for violence?

3. One critique of The Outsiders is that its language is not entirely realistic. Euphemisms like "Glory!" are used instead of more likely but controversial expressions, and in some scenes, there are blanks where curses would typically be. Why does Hinton choose to do this? Does it detract from the story or make it less believable? Why or why not?

4. What do you envision Ponyboy doing in ten years? What about Sodapop, Darry, Two-Bit, Curly Shepard, Tim Shepard, Cherry, and Randy?

5. Imagine you are a "greasey girl." Can you relate to Ponyboy's story? Do his grievances resonate with you? Do you face any other issues that he might not understand?