How does the relationship between Jake and Frankie change as the story continues?

Jake’s family has a secret. But there are other secrets in Finest Kind, too. What is Nabby’s family’s secret? Jake’s Father’s secret?

Do you think Simon should have been put in jail? Why, or why not?

Jake would like Tom to be his friend. Why do you think Tom is often mean to him?

What does “finest kind” mean?

No one, not even Dr. Theobold, can make Frankie’s fits stop. Are there any physical problems or diseases today that no one can cure? Do you think some day they will be curable?

What does it mean when Father gives Mother a mirror for Christmas?

Window in Lincoln County Jail

In Finest Kind the people in Wiscasset celebrate Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. How are their celebrations different from the way we celebrate today?

Granny McPherson lives by herself, far away from other people. Why do you think she lives so far from the village? Are there any people today who choose to live by themselves? Who? And why?

Granny is an old woman. Do you think people would have thought she was a witch if she were young and pretty?

Jake must learn many new things in Maine. What are some of those things? Which things do you think were the hardest for him to do?

How are people like Simon treated today?

Why was the Burke family put in jail?

Lincoln County Jail and Jailor's Home