A Little Life

1. General Impressions 

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Given the novel’s themes of identity and trauma-based unhappiness, what was its emotional impact on you?
• Though the novel explores deeply challenging topics and complex emotions, it is also about love. What moments brought you joy or happiness?
• Consider The Goldfinch by Donna Tartt alongside A Little Life. How do these works explore some of the effects of childhood trauma as a person grows into adulthood? What are some similarities and differences?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• The novel focuses intensely on identity. In what ways could you connect to Jude, Willem, JB, and Malcolm? Which character did you connect with the most?
• A major theme in the novel is the concept of chosen family. How important is chosen family to you, and in what ways does your inner circle look different from or like Jude’s?
• How have you worked to heal aspects of your childhood that were imperfect or even painful? How have others been able to help you in your healing process?
• Which scene in the novel evoked the strongest emotional response for you?
• In what ways can grief be read as a symptom of love? Does this connection make grief easier to accept?

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