Book Discussion for Away

There were a number of discussion topics covered: immigrant literature, role of women, users, bad sex, emotions (or lack thereof), dreams and the ending. I very much doubt that we came to any firm conclusions but we very much enjoyed the journey.

1. One of the first questions I ask at every book group is: "Would you recommend this book to a friend?"

In the back of the trade paper edition there are a number of questions. Here are some of the ones we found most fruitful.

2. Relationships among family members, particularly parents and children, play an important role in the novel. Compare and contrast the relationship between Lillian and Sophie, Reuben and Meyer, Chinky and the Changs. What is distinct about each family? What is different?

3. Contrast Yaakov's story with Lillian's. How do they each handle the loss of a spouse and children, and how are they changed?

4. Dreams are a recurring theme in the novel. What are Lillian's dreams, both literal and metaphorical? How do these illustrate or inform the larger subject of the American dream?

5. "Not that she is mine. That I am hers, " Lillian says, describing her love for Sophie (p.79 - trade paper). In many ways, love is the primary engine of the plot. How does love define, inspire, and compel characters in the novel? What are some of the things characters do for love? Do you think tht love is portrayed in the novel as a wholly positive force?