Defect [Paperback]

Maybe it was bad karma. Maybe it was just bad luck. Whatever the reason, fifteen-year-old David was born defective. His bug eyes, pinched face, and hearing aids are obvious, but there is a secret David keeps from everyone, even his foster parents. Because of a thin layer of skin hidden under each arm, David can flywell, glide is more like it. Terrified of doctors, wary of letting down his guard, David is determined to hide his secret at any cost. But then David meets Cheetah, a girl whose own defect doesn't diminish her spirit, and suddenly his life begins to take wing.

In this arresting new novel, Will Weaver creates an unforgettable character on the path to discovering that some blessings can be a curseand some curses a blessing.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS:
1. What are the book's main themes?
2. The author has identified religious themes as an important part of the book. What is your understanding of the
book's religious themes?
3. Is David's defect plausible? Could it be real?
4. What is meant by normal? Is David a normal boy?
5. Do you believe David should have the operation? Why or why not? If you had David's defect, would you choose to
have the operation?
6. What will David's life be like after the book's conclusion?
7. In what ways does Cheetah facilitate change in David's life? What is the significance of her name?
8. As a teen, what was your experience of defects among your circle of peers? Did you feel defective?
9. Do you believe in angels? In what ways, if any, do you believe David is an angel? Who have been the angels in
your life?
10. In what ways does the book make the case that some blessings can be a curse, and some curses a blessing? How

has this been true in your own life?

WILL WEAVER is the author of numerous books for young adults. His most recent novel,Full Service, was named an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, andKirkus Reviews, in a starred review, hal“„