Orbiting Jupiter

Why does the author choose to set the novel during winter? Why is it important that the novel is set in an area with severe winter weather?

How does Joseph’s ability to clearly see Jupiter in the night sky parallel his journey to find his daughter?

Mr. Canton is antagonistic toward Joseph throughout the novel. What symbolic value is present in the author’s decision to involve Mr. Canton in the wreck that kills Joseph and his father?

How is Joseph’s death foreshadowed throughout the novel?

How does Joseph help Jack transform from a passive to an active protagonist throughout the narrative?

Joseph befriends Rosie the cow very quickly in the novel. Why does the author choose to spend so much time on this friendship? What does the friendship represent for Joseph?

Jack states that he has never heard the bells of the old First Congregational church ring before, and Joseph is the first to ring the bell. Why are these details important to Jack’s journey?

What is the significance of the timing of Joseph’s death? Explain in the context of the fact that Jack meets her instead.