book clubs
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS,
SKYPE CALLS & VISITS,
OH MY!
Thank you for considering "The Meaning of Home" for your book club selection. Discussion questions are available for download below. I'd be thrilled to join your book club gathering, whether it's in-person or via Skype. If you're in or around the Bucks County, Pennsylvania area, Southeastern Pennsylvania, or New Jersey, Charlie usually accompanies me. And we are always happy to autograph your books for you.
Book Club discussion questions
The Meaning of Home is my debut novel, inspired by my rescue dog, Charlie, a mixed breed part Pomeranian - part "fox." In the novel, Charlie tells the story of his quest for the peace of a permanent home. Beginning with his accidental conception, his journey weaves through the events that caused his homelessness, his life among human inhabitants of a homeless camp, and his experiences in shelters, veterinary hospitals and a foster home. Even after his adoption by a young girl, Lucy McAllister, and her family, Charlie learns that a permanent home isn’t always peaceful. The McAllisters have trouble enough of their own. Ultimately, Charlie’s story is about hope and the perseverance to get up and try again.
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1. In the novel, the author uses Charlie’s first-person point of view to tell the story. Do you believe the author effectively conveyed Charlie’s world view in a unique way? Why or why not?
2. Domestic violence remains a serious and pervasive problem in American society. Do you believe the novel accurately portrays a situation of domestic violence and its impact on humans and pets? Why or why not?
3. In the novel, Charlie describes several ways in which canine lives and human lives are similar. Name three and say whether you agree or disagree with the parallel that Charlie draws.
4. Which of the major characters in the novel demonstrates the most personal growth and explain your reasoning?
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5. Through Claire, Al, and Father Paul, the author weaves different perspectives on faith into the story, and especially the power of faith to give hope and inspire one to persevere. What is Charlie’s perspective? And what’s yours?
6. Prejudice and fear are negative human reactions toward people who aren’t like us and make us feel uncomfortable. What are some of the prejudices and fears expressed in the novel toward the homeless?
7. After reading the novel, have your feelings toward the homeless and the causes of homelessness changed in any way? Why or why not?
8. Several studies have shown the healing power of pet companionship. Do you believe Claire’s study on the effect of pets in reducing relapse into addiction and motivating the homeless to improve their situation is based in fact?
9. How does Charlie express the author’s views on grief after the loss of a loved one?
10. What is the meaning of “Home”?