Some final thoughts for Mr. Sonnenblick

Now that we're done with the novel, spend a few moments sharing your final impressions with Mr. Sonnenblick. Tell him what you thought of his book. What did you like? What did you dislike? Would you like to read any of his other books?

Final Reflection

At the beginning of the novel, we discussed what made a great novel. In your opinion, is Notes from the Midnight Driver a great novel? Why or why not?

Coda

At the end of the chapter, Alex reflects on his year. "...somewhere in the course of this year--my junior year of high school, my senior year of childhood, Sol's last lap around the sun--I figured out that we're all free, in the only way that matters anyway. We're all free to choose some people to love, and then do it." (259)

What does this mean to you? Translate this into your own statement about life.

Lastly, which is the most important single word in the above passage. Why?

The Work of Breathing

After watching Solomon struggle to breath as he played the blues, and after having seen Solomon's treasured memories of his daughter Judy, Alex goes to Laurie's house where he encounters a different Laurie than he is used to. Suddenly the roles are reversed and Alex is the one providing encouragement. As he attempts to comfort her, we hear him use the following words, "You know, I just think a child and a parent should speak with each other, that's all." (p235)

Explain the importance of these words to the overall plot/theme of the book. Be sure to refer to every situation in which those words hold significance. Has Alex's attitude changed since we first met him at the start of the book?

Another BIG Idea

We just looked at this passage in another blog entry.

"What is it?"

"Alfredo. It's a creamy cheese sauce."

"Since when do you know how to make ANYTHING, much less a so-called 'creamy cheese sauce'"

"Oh Alex. Gimme a break. People can change, right? Now, taste it already."

"I don't know, Dad. I've been burned before."

What BIG idea does Sonnenblick want the reader to take from this passage? How is this BIG idea developed throughout the novel up to this point. Support your answer with SPECIFIC details from the text.

A Resentful little Metaphor!

Alex continues to battle his confusion towards life in general. From his parent's struggles at the beginning to his newfound attraction to Laurie, his life is a jumble of emotions. We see his conflicted emotions emerge on page 212-213 when talking with his dad.

"What is it?"

"Alfredo. It's a creamy cheese sauce."

"Since when do you know how to make ANYTHING, much less a so-called 'creamy cheese sauce'"

"Oh Alex. Gimme a break. People can change, right? Now, taste it already."

"I don't know, Dad. I've been burned before."

What does this exchange tell you about Alex's feelings towards his father? Are things any better with their relationship? Do you agree with Alex's feelings, or do you think he should lighten up a little? Why or why not?

The Mission

In our class discussions, much has been made of Alex's gradual change from self-centeredness to a more selfless attitude. His focus is less on himself and more on those around him. Yet just when we think he's changed, we see him complaining, "I can't believe you set this up without asking me...You're not asking, you're telling me. And the answer is no. I don't want to be embarrassed again." (p211)

What does this response reveal about Alex? Do you think he has really changed, or does this most recent incident reveal something else. Support your answer with evidence from the text.