Tunnel of Bones

Describe the relationship between Lara and Jacob. How does it complicate and contribute to the narrative’s message about friendship and teamwork?

Argue for or against the idea that Jacob acts as Cassidy’s conscience, using examples from the text to support your argument.

Cassidy says of the Veil, “Space is space. A step in the Veil is a step on the other side. If we wander too far away from my parents and the crew, I could end up lost in the real world, too. Trapped in this maze” (45). How does this conception of the Veil influence the plot, conflict, and narrative tension?

Compare and contrast Cassidy’s and Lara’s characters. How do their similarities and differences influence their relationship dynamic? Cite specific examples from the text to support your answer.

What is the significance of Cassidy feeling a sense of purpose in reaping ghosts? How does this impact her friendship with Jacob and shape her broader moral dilemma?

Analyze the author’s use of pop-culture allusions in the text. How would the narrative change without these references? Consider what these allusions uniquely offer to Cassidy’s characterization in your response.

Cassidy’s and Jacob’s physical appearances change, inversely, depending on which side of the Veil they’re on. What parallels can one draw between this pattern and Cassidy’s and Jacob’s characters? How do these physical changes contribute to Cassidy’s understanding of the Veil and her purpose there?

In Chapter 20, Cassidy says that they’re running out of time to stop Thomas, and Jacob proposes that they just leave Paris and put Thomas behind them. What do the book’s tone and subtext suggest about Cassidy’s level of responsibility for the threat that Thomas poses to the city and her ethical obligations toward ghosts and the Veil?