Kona admired the beauty of the ice storm.  "He was moved and strengthened by the beauty around him."  Have you ever experienced an ice or snow storm?  What do you remember about the wonder and beauty of it?  Or have you ever been so thankful to be home after a long journey?  Describe that feeling. 

Why is this ice journey so dangerous for Kona? Why is he willing to take such a  "very big risk" ? Who would take that kind of risk for you?  Why? 

 "But what they were about to face was a danger none of them could have imagined."  Wow!  It sounds like trouble is coming.  Have you or someone in your family experienced an ice storm?  How could an ice storm be trouble or how could it be dangerous?  

How did Stumpy think of her babies names?  Have you ever named a pet to match their personality?  Does your family have any nicknames that they use for one another to match personalities?  

Kona wishes that he could be "remarkable".  What makes someone or something "remarkable"?  Give some examples.  

What do you think of Murray so far?  

Professor Albert named Kona after his favorite coffee.  Ask your parents how they picked your name.  What are some names that you might pick for your future children?  If you could pick your own name right now, what would you pick? 

A squirrel and a dog are an unlikely friendship, as are a dog and a hermit crab.  Have you ever experienced an "unlikely" or "special" friendship?  Tell us about it.  

What is a treasure?  Kona and Stumpy have different ideas about what is a valuable treasure.  Can you think of anything that is worth more to you than money?