Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of rape and racism.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How does Miller’s decision to open her memoir by introducing herself rather than beginning with the assault impact your understanding of her story? How does this compare to other memoirs you’ve read, such as Maya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which also deals with trauma and identity?

2. What effect does Miller’s use of present tense have when she is describing specific memories and events? How does this stylistic choice influence your emotional connection to her experiences?

3. In what ways does Miller balance moments of darkness with moments of hope throughout her memoir? Which moments stood out to you most powerfully?

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

1. Miller describes various coping mechanisms she uses to deal with trauma, including dissociation and art. What healthy coping strategies have you developed to handle difficult situations? 

2. Throughout the memoir, Miller struggles with the concept of forgiveness. How do you define forgiveness? What role do you see it as playing in healing?