The Million Dollar Shot

Compare and contrast Eddie’s contest shot to the story that Annie’s dad tells about missing his chance with the NBA. How does this story shift Eddie’s outlook toward the contest? Does coaching Eddie offer Annie’s dad anything in return? Why or why not?

Focusing on Eddie and Mr. Finkle, explore the difference between confidence and overconfidence. Where is the line between the two, and what personality traits symbolize each one? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

How does the slow-motion shot in Chapter 15 create suspense? How would the novel have been different if Dan Gutman had not included this chapter and had simply skipped to the scene of Eddie making the shot? What does the inclusion of this chapter suggest about the nature of storytelling and Gutman’s writing style?

In Chapter 16, Eddie offers three possible endings for the story. Which ending feels most appropriate, and why? Use examples from the text to support whichever ending you choose.

The Million Dollar Shot offers commentary on personal strengths and weaknesses and their collective effects on a person’s behavior. Analyze Eddie and Annie as individuals and friends and discuss how their strengths and weaknesses make them a good team. Does Annie’s help make Eddie’s victory any more or less valid? Support your answer with examples from the text.

Analyze Eddie’s decision to buy and transform Mr. Finkle’s company. Why does he make the choices he does, and what broader messages does this ending send to Gutman’s readers?

How does the plot of The Million Dollar Shot critique consumer culture and the divisive aspects of social class and status? Compare and contrast the different meanings that money has to the various characters, based on their current status and class. Be sure to include an analysis of at least three characters and their attitudes toward the million dollars.

Analyze the ways in which Gutman uses the character of Mr. Finkle as an avatar for corporate America. What do Mr. Finkle’s business decisions say about him as a person and about his approach to his own company?