What do you make of the novel’s title? The book uses the recovery of Anna Hart to suggest the power of hope, after all the stars go dark at sunrise. Contrast the stories of Cameron Curtis and Shannan Russo. Which one better exemplifies the title?

Research the Rainer Maria Rilke poem “I Am Much Too Alone in the World.” How does the poem’s thematic argument apply to Cameron? Anna believes what a person reads gives insight into their character. Why does Cameron not copy the poem’s closing lines?

Investigate the role of psychics in cases involving missing children. What is the science behind the mysticism, visions, and dreams typical of psychics? How does Tally Hollander emerge as a heroic element in the novel?