Exploring Emily Dickinson's "God gave a loaf to every bird"

1. Revisit the profound poem "God gave a loaf to every bird" by the illustrious Emily Dickinson. Cavett interprets the poem as a celebration of contentment with one's lot in life, while Leslie perceives it as an exploration of desperation and hunger. How do you decipher Dickinson's message? What insights fuel your interpretation?

Leslie's Protective Instincts

2. Why is it crucial for Leslie to shield her mother from bearing any responsibility for the unfolding events in her life?

The Symbolism of Food

3. In tales for children, food typically embodies a source of joy for the hero; however, Leslie perceives it as something sinister. What deeper meaning does food hold within the narrative of this book?

Mrs. Hiller's Spending Habits

4. Why does Mrs. Hiller only indulge in purchasing items for herself when they're discounted, yet spares no expense when it comes to buying for Leslie?

Leslie and the Dance

5. Leslie describes attending the dance as an empty vessel, with Avram filling it with a gift, only for her mother to dismantle the gift's packaging and take the treasure. Why does Leslie feel deprived, even though she relishes the act of giving more than receiving? (Chapter 3)

Leslie's Bond with Her Father

6. Why does Leslie's rapport with her father seem to lack depth and sincerity?

Leslie's Hanukkah Conundrum

7. Leslie laments that she could never make Cavett grasp her feelings about her mother bestowing a present upon her each night of Hanukkah. What emotions does she harbor? Why is articulating these sentiments to Cavett such a challenge?

Leslie's Apology

8. Leslie discards her lunch bag containing raspberry yogurt in the trash and subsequently expresses remorse to her mother. What compels Leslie to feel apologetic?

Leslie's Invisibility

9. After her encounters with the first two doctors, Leslie muses, "they poke and call and worry and ask me questions, but nobody can see or hear me; maybe I don't exist then." What drives her to feel this sense of invisibility?