DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR "THE ENCOUNTER"

We have read other books this year which have dealt with abandonment, abuse, etc.  Compared to those, would you consider this book helpful?  Why or why not?

What did you enjoy about this book?

Were there any memorable quotes in this book?  If so, what?

Would you say this book was predictable or did anything take you by surprise?

If you knew someone who was dealing with anger issues, or un-forgiveness, would you refer them to anything in this book?  If so, what?

Was the ending satisfying?  If not, what would you change?

On the front cover there is a quote, "Read The Encounter and learn things about yourself that you never knew were there."  Did you?

May Book Selection "The Encounter"

Thanks Amanda!  We had 20 tonight, including two new ladies!  Thank you to everyone!!  One more to go in Year 8!

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR "THE ORPHAN TRAIN"

How did you like the way the author switched back and forth between the two stories?  Did you prefer one story over the other?  Explain.

It isn't until a rebellious 17 year old girl with secrets of her own starts asking pointed questions that Vivian finally tells her story.  The author said "Over the course of the novel, Vivian moves from shame to acceptance, coming to terms about her past and in the process learns about the regenerative power of claiming and telling one's own life story."  Talk about whether or not you agree with that in the book as well as in real life.

The present day story took place over 6 weeks or so.  Vivian's story encompassed 90 years.  Did you find it hard to follow?  Why or why not?

Do you find it hard to believe that children were put on trains and taken cross country to be basically "picked through" by perspective parents who sometimes only wanted extra help on the farm or around the house?  Talk about how this was better/worse than being left in an orphanage.

How did you perceive Vivian's decision to give her daughter up for adoption?

There is evidently a 1979 PBS movie called "The Orphan Train".  Do you think this book would make a good movie?  Why or why not?

How do you feel about the way the author ended the book?

If you were to write additional chapters, what would happen to Vivian and/or Molly?

April Book Selection

Great Conversation

Thank you for hosting us in your lovely new home, Penny!  As usual, the food was delicious!  As I said at the meeting, I think we had more discussion tonight than usual!  Thanks to everyone!  May we continue to grow and learn from the books we read!  I LOVE book club!!

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS FOR "LEFT NEGLECTED"

What was your overall "take" on this book?  Did you consider it well written? Relatable? Funny? Sad?  All/none of the above?
What would you say is the main message of this book?
What, if anything, made you laugh? Cry?
Were you shocked by anything?  If so, what?
What in this story encouraged you?
Have you ever scheduled crying sessions!!??  What are some coping mechanisms you have used?
Are there things in your life that you might change as a result of reading this book?  What would you change?
On page 231, she mentioned an anti-regret pill!  Ever wished you had one or two of those to take?
Would you say Sarah is better off at the end of the novel than at the beginning?  If so, in what ways?
Are there any questions in the back of the book you would like to talk about?

March Book Selection