2-3-4 Challenge Book Discussions #2 discussion

Throughout the course of the story, Evan slowly develops a relationship with his neighbor Mia Hall and her son, Peter. Does he have feelings for Mia, is his bond more to Peter or a combination of both? What are your impressions of her?

At first I didn't know what to think of Mia. I thought she may have been a plant to get Evan's trust and eventually take him down. But it's hard to have a plant that has a little kid in tow.

I think Evan is developing feelings for both Mia and Peter. He sees and innocence in Peter that he never got to have as a child. I think he also sees that Mia will do anything to keep her child safe.

I felt like we were led to not know what to think of Mia. Was she a plant in the building. Was she real. Is someone else a plant in the building??
I did like how Evan and Peter develop a relationship allowing Evan to see what his life could look like. Not sure Evan will ever have what we would consider a normal life.

I know Mia hated it, but I really loved hearing Evan give Peter advice on how to deal with his bully(ies) at school after it becomes clear to Evan what all the band aids are really from. Kids are cruel and Peter really does need to learn how to stand up for himself. It is not the easiest for kids to not be targets or make sure they are always in view/hearing distance of teachers.

I loved Evan's advice to Peter too, Melissa. Peter needs to learn how to handle bullies. As you mentioned, there is not always a teacher around when you need them.

Like both of you, I was off balance about Mia for a large part of this story, at least until those thugs came after her.

Evan and Peter have a wonderful relationship and I believe he gave him the right advice about those bullies. Mia’s reaction was typical of a single mom whose son doesn’t have a man in his life. His father would probably give him advice similar to Evan’s, maybe not “go for the knees” but something else that has him standing up to them.

I think Evan’s got more feelings invested in these two because of Peter. Not completely sold on him having deeper feelings for Mia yet.

You could definitely be on the money Jonetta. I feel as if Peter reminds Evan of himself before he was taken in by Jack.

There’s definitely a connection they share. Peter is inexplicably drawn to Evan as much as it’s also the reverse. Evan “gets” Peter.

I'm waiting to see whether a real connection exists among the three of them. Peter and Evan, yes; Mia -?

Mia started out weak for me but as the story progressed, she became a stronger character. I am very happy Mia cut off Evan for the sake of her son and realized any relationship she would have had with Evan would only end up bad. I believe Evan really wanted to bond with Peter but realized Mia was right to cut ties.

I agree with you that Evan is tied to Peter more than Mia. I'm still on the fence about her. I'm not sure I agree with Mia having Evan cut ties with Peter. Although I do see where it would be dangerous for him. Evan understand being alone. Peter needs someone to help him find his way.