1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How did the twist ending regarding Eleanor’s mother change your perception of the story? Did you find it a satisfying conclusion? Why or why not?
• Which relationship (whether romantic, familial, or platonic) did you feel most invested in? What made it compelling?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• Consider Eleanor’s infatuation with Johnnie. Have you ever developed a celebrity crush like this? Why do certain people we don’t know draw us in so intensely?
• Eleanor develops several coping mechanisms to manage her loneliness. How do you deal with loneliness in your own life? What recommendations would you give to someone struggling with feelings of isolation?
• Have you ever undergone a personal transformation like Eleanor’s? What kind of relationship do you think exists between external and internal transformations?
• Throughout Eleanor and Raymond’s friendship, Eleanor questions and upends several social norms. Do you agree with her perception of social conduct? What are some social rituals that you feel are unnecessary, and what are some that you feel serve an important purpose?
• How did you feel about Eleanor’s attempt to die by suicide? Can you understand why her journey culminated in this choice? Did you think the topic was handled appropriately?

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