The disappearance of fathers is a common occurrence in Tinkers. Compare and contrast the ways in which Howard’s leaving and his own father’s disappearances impact their sons.

Tinkering plays an important role in the lives of Howard and George. How does the spirit of tinkering come out in the daily lives of each? What similarities and differences do they have in their motivations for tinkering?

The plot in Tinkers is developed through a non-linear narrative technique. How does this develop the themes of time and memory?