The dystopian setting and circumstances of the novel test society. What does the novel suggest about the definition of human society? What messages are conveyed overall about human society’s intentions and motivations? Refer to specific details in the text to help in supporting your thoughts. Consider these points as you formulate a response.

• What do flashbacks reveal about society before the bee flu vaccine? What is revealed about society as Fo pieces together the tragic circumstances that led to the current state?
• What do most people seem to support in this society?
• How are some characters standing against negative elements of society and what are their reasons?
• What are some turning points in the novel’s plotline? What does Fo learn from the actions of other characters?
• How does the author use tone and mood to express ideas about this topic?

Teaching Suggestion: Reviewing definitions of society currently used in the fields of sociology or communications could provide entry points to the discussion; alternatively, identifying elements in the novel that point to how society might be defined may be helpful. Conducting close reads and analysis of individual scenes can lead to more specific responses. Since tone and mood are instrumental in developing themes, reviewing these terms and offering opportunities to identify them in scenes can lead to clear and complete analysis.