Book Lovers

What kind of place is Sunshine Falls? How do its characteristics contribute to Nora and Charlie’s dynamic?

How do Nora and Libby’s memories of their mother and their childhoods differ? How and to what extent do these discrepancies influence their outlooks on life?

How would you describe Nora’s relationship to the season of summer and the concept of vacationing? Why do you think it was so important for Henry to take her heroine out of her comfort zone?

What role does past trauma play in Nora’s relationship pattern? Why is it so important for Nora to tell Charlie about Jakob, and how does this inform their relationship?

How does the motif of editing function in the novel, both literally and metaphorically? To what extent does Henry show that frequent editing is essential to a happy life?

How does Henry’s treatment of female characters with opposing traits compare to that of a more stereotypical romance novel or movie? Compare a specific dynamic in Book Lovers with one from another work.

How would you describe Henry’s portrayal of the publishing industry? What role does Nora and Charlie’s book-consciousness play in their courtship?

Do a close reading of Charlie Lastra’s character. To what extent do you think he is a typical romantic hero? In what respects does Nora play the traditionally male role in their courtship?