1. What kind of research did Franzen do to write this narrative? Make a list of the nonpersonal details he includes in the story — such as biographical information, historical facts, and other writers’ literary analyses — and then comment on what this research adds to Franzen’s own memories. (See Chapter 7, “Literary Analyses.”)

2. Franzen seems to jump from one scene to another, but this narrative does have a plot. Map the story along a timeline. What is the major action that moves the narrative along? How does Franzen tie the different scenes together? (See “Use physical devices for transitions.”)

3. This essay blends three genres: memoir, literary analysis, and literacy narrative. Focusing first on Franzen’s literary analysis, what arguments does he make about Schulz’s work? What evidence does he include to support his arguments?

4. WRITING: Franzen draws on close readings of his favorite comic strip to explain how he saw the world when he was young. Looking back at a favorite book, television show, or movie from your childhood, explore how you might have developed an understanding of the world through its characters. What truths about life did you learn from fiction? Write a narrative based on your reflections.