1. The end of the book leaves the reader with the unanswered question of what will Kathy do about Julia? Why did Wells end the book this way? What do you think Kathy would do if another chapter were added to the book?

2. At the beginning of the book Kathy is ranked number twelve in the fourteen and under category. She is fourteen and competes with players her own age or younger. What do you think will happen when she turns fifteen and must compete with older, more experienced players?

3. This book won the Mystery Writers of America Edgar Allan Poe Award. Do you consider this a good mystery story? Why or why not?

4. Kathy is told by her tennis coach that she will never be much of a student. Her parents seem to have the same view of her academic talents. How much do you think these attitudes affect Kathy's performance in school?

5. Contrast the attitudes of Kathy and Marty about the doubles match against the two older ladies in the club tournaments.

6. Contrast gamesmanship with cheating. Why are certain strategies considered gamesmanship and other cheating, when both are often used to make up for lack of skill or talent?

7. Debate the value of special courses of study for athletes who need extra time for practice.

8. Analyze the actions of adults in the book, such as Marty, Kathy's parents, the algebra teacher, and the school superintendent. Which ones acted with Kathy's best interest in mind?