Dear Edward

Why does Napolitano choose to write about the crash of Flight 2977 in flashbacks interspersed throughout the novel? Why would a purely linear storytelling approach be less effective?

How does the revelation of Jordan’s secret relationship with Mahira propel Edward’s growth? How does it hinder his coping?

While most of Flight 2977’s passengers are dealing with regret and worry, Florida remains a source of optimism throughout most of the flight. How do her beliefs about her past lives set her apart? How do her struggles compare with those of the other passengers?

Why is it important for readers to know so much about the passengers on the plane if Edward is the only survivor? How do their experiences explore the themes of Edward’s journey?

Before opening any letters, Gary—Linda’s boyfriend—visits Edward at school. Why is it important for Gary to visit Edward in person in the context of the plot? How does it foreshadow Edward’s choice to respond to the letters?

Siblinghood is a pervasive theme in Dear Edward. Pick two of the novel’s sibling pairs—Edward and Jordan, Lacey and Jane, Mark and Jax, Crispin and his abusive brother—and discuss their differences. Additionally, how are they alike?

John keeps the letters and flight information hidden from Edward in the years following the crash. Is he justified in doing this? How would Edward’s journey have changed if John had given him the letters earlier?

Why did Napolitano choose to save the paramedic’s letter until the end of the novel? Why is it significant that this is the last letter Edward opens?