Throughout his narrative, first-person point of view character Mac engages in several backstory retellings and interruptions. What are three to four examples of notable backstory or flashback-style stories Mac tells? What is the purpose of each from a storytelling perspective? What is the impact on you as a reader of an interruption to the linear plotline? Of the backstory retellings you indicated, which one reveals the most about the main story’s plot and/or characters, and how?

Mac relies on the assistance of others throughout the novel. Excluding Vince and Joe, which three secondary characters are the most helpful to Mac in his decision to stand up to Staples and eventually defeat him? What specific talents or abilities do these three characters possess that contribute to their helpfulness? Provide details from the text to support your thoughts.

Baseball (and specifically, the Chicago Cubs) is a strong interest that Mac and Vince share. What might their shared interest in this particular sport or team symbolize in the context of the novel? What connotations come to mind with baseball topics and