1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How did you feel about the novel’s central romance? Did you find it satisfying? How does it compare to relationships in other romances you’ve encountered?
• What is the significance of the novel’s title? Did your understanding of it change over the course of the novel?
• Did you resonate with the fairytale elements of the story? Did you spot the Disney allusions layered within the plot?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• How did you feel about the author’s handling of sensitive topics such as cycles of abuse?
• Consider Jimenez’s portrayal of the struggle to balance career ambitions and personal fulfillment. Have you ever felt this tension? Did you find the novel’s depiction realistic?
• Do you agree with Alexie’s choices? How would you have reacted differently in certain situations?
• Did you resonate with Alexis’s struggle to fulfill her parents’ expectations? Have you ever felt pressured by your family to maintain a particular lifestyle despite it conflicting with your values?
• Before reading the book, what were your perceptions of small-town life? How did reading about Daniel’s life in Wakan uphold or change those perceptions?
• How did you feel about the age gap between Alexis and Daniel? Do you think you’d feel differently if Daniel were the older partner?

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