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All first-year students will write a two-page response to any one of these questions. The response should be word-processed in size 12 font, Times New Roman style, with 1” margins all around. Students will submit the response to their NUS 102 instructor in the second week of classes (September 2-5).

1. Pick two emotions (for example, bravery; rage; fear; cowardice; love; grief). Think of a character that illustrates each emotion, and explain how that character illustrates that emotion.
2. How do the stories in the book help you understand the frustrations and disillusionment of soldiers who fought in Vietnam?
3. What insights about war did you gain from reading this book?
4. With which character(s) did you feel the greatest connection? Why?
5. Which part in the book is most memorable or meaningful for you? Why?
6. Compare The Things They Carried to another book you've read. Which book did you like better? Why?
7. In what ways was the Vietnam War similar to today’s war in Iraq? In what ways did it differ? Refer to specific details from The Things They Carried.
8. Do you know anyone who fought in the Vietnam War? Anyone who protested the war? Anyone who is Vietnamese? Would you recommend this book to that person? Why or why not?
9. Niagara University’s mission statement includes this goal: “to develop within its students a passion for learning.” In what ways did The Things They Carried spark your interest in learning more? What would you like to know more about? Why?
10. Why do you think the Niagara Reads committee selected this book for the 2008 freshman class?