A Chance in the World

Steve has many people in his life, some of them unnamed, who helped him in subtle ways to overcome his difficulties growing up. Who are the people and how did their gestures make a lasting impact on Steve and who he became? What are some of the gestures made by neighbors, school staff, coworkers and others who helped Steve to accomplish his goals? What was the motivation for his goals and how was that encouraged by those he encountered? 

Teaching Suggestion: Students may have difficulty remembering all the key figures who helped Steve in subtle ways to accomplish his goals. Consider allowing students to first discuss the different people in the book in small groups or to look back over the memoir or their reading questions as a reference. It may be helpful, as well, for students to record their thoughts before discussing.