The element of water plays a significant role in the novel. What do you believe the water represents? What could its disappearance signify?

Trice has a dream that propels the story forward. Have you ever had a dream that compelled you to contact someone or take a particular action? If so, what was the outcome?

Billy and Trice take to the road to bring Nehemiah home, to reach out and bring him back to his destiny. Do you believe the 'road' you're on now is the one that has your name on it—your destiny? Would you change something about your path if you could? If so, what would be different?

Trice comes to Shibboleth under mysterious circumstances and secrets seem to surround her. Have you been the keeper of a friend or relative's secret? Was it a treasure or a burden?

If you were to suddenly find yourself entering the town of Shibboleth "either in on the road or in your dreams", where would be your first stop or the first person you would visit? Why?

Billy seems to believe that Nehemiah and Trice have very special gifts but that he himself has little to offer. Is this true? What gifts do you perceive that Billy possesses that are crucial to the ultimate outcome for Shibboleth?

In Shibboleth, two places represent the central gathering spots of the townspeople—the church and Kate's diner. Do we still gather together to share our joys, concerns, or sorrows with ritual and regularity? Is it the same? If not, why not?

In the early part of The Messenger of Magnolia Street, God takes a ride in the back of a pick-up truck. Did you find that image delightful? Disparaging? Please discuss.

Like the Biblical Nehemiah of the Old Testament, our Nehemiah becomes the catalyst for events that affect the ultimate destiny of his people. What do you think would have happened if he had refused to return? What were the individual reactions to his 'coming home'? Have you ever run away from something only to be forced to return?

Describe the relationship between Nehemiah and Trice. Was it crucial for them to be together? Do you believe in the concept of soul-mates?

The interconnectedness of the lives of Shibboleth's citizens becomes more and more evident as the story progresses. Are our lives still connected to one another in our families and our communities? If so how and where? If not, is this factor important?

The town of Shibboleth represents 'small town America' and although it is located in the 'deep South' it is a picture of Everytown USA. Are the small rural towns becoming a thing of the past, a forgotten piece of folklore of America? What ideas can you share for ways in which the best elements of small town life, a sense of community can be preserved?

Throughout the story in the midst of everyday life, the supernatural touches down and invades the natural world. An angel watches and records the simple and profound nuances of their lives; God walks among the people of Shibboleth, and evil hovers and threatens to destroy. How have you seen the supernatural touch down in your life?

How has reading the story of The Messenger of Magnolia Street affected you? Has it inspired you to do something that you otherwise might not have considered?