1. Retell a chapter of the novel from the point of view of another character, such as Riser Pease, Devola, Romey, Mrs. Connell, or Miss Breathitt.

2. Explore the developing characterization in Where the Lilies Bloom. For example, what does Mary Call mean when she says Devola is "cloudyheaded?" Does Devola seem cloudyheaded to you? Is she cloudy-headed at the end of the story? If not, what has caused her to change? Or you may want to focus on Riser, who changes dramatically during the course of the story. Is he a better person at the end? What has brought about his apparent reformation? Is it a lasting change?

3. Discuss the animals and birds used as symbols in the story. Do they mean the same thing to Romey as they do to Mary Call or Devola? What about the lilies of the title, or spring?

4. Research mountain life in North Carolina today. Is wildcrafting still practiced? Is poverty still a problem?

5. Think back on a time when you had a very hard decision to make, and reflect on the steps Mary Call took in making her decisions. How did your decision making processes compare with hers? How could reading about Mary Call have helped you in making your decision? Do you think she would have eventually made the same decision that you made? Why or why not?