Academic activities include examination of symbolism and conflict, interpretation of proverbs and similes, creative writing, vocabulary exercises, comprehension questions, and optional Internet-related culminating activity. Lessons include vocabulary and reading comprehension handouts that correspond to reading assignments. Brief vocabulary quizzes are included in each lesson, and a cumulative vocabulary test is provided.

Lessons also feature final project options and the opportunity to compare the novel to Absolutely Normal Chaos, also by Sharon Creech.