In a short essay, discuss how Ryan’s journal entries and Sarah’s video-diary entries complement one another in Skeleton Creek. How would the story be different without access to either the print or digital elements of the novel?

Ryan grows increasingly distrustful of adults in authority positions, such as his father and Ranger Daryl Bonner, who should have his best interests in mind. Is his paranoia justified? What factors might be influencing his perception of the people and events around him?

Ryan and Sarah sneak around and deceive their parents throughout the novel. Considering the moral and legal implications of these decisions, are Ryan and Sarah justified in breaking their parents’ rules? Support your response with evidence from the text.