Carrie

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What moment in the book did you find most frightening, and why?

2. What did you think of King’s use of a non-linear, epistolary structure that incorporates excerpts from newspapers and the characters’ memoirs? Did you find that this structure enhanced the suspense?

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

1. Carrie experiences rampant bullying at school. Have you ever felt like you didn’t fit in somewhere? How did you handle this situation?

2. Sue is an important source of compassion for Carrie. Share a story about a time when someone’s care made a difference in your life. 

3. King uses Carrie’s telekinesis to discuss the idea of coming-of-age. In your own life, was there a specific moment or event that you consider your coming-of-age, or was your personal process of gaining maturation and autonomy more gradual?

4. Over the course of the novel, Carrie challenges some of the damaging beliefs her mother taught her. Are there any ideas that you were taught when you were young that you’ve decided no longer serve you?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. What insights does the novel offer about the problem of bullying, and what suggestions does it offer about how schools and communities can address this issue?

2. Margaret’s religious views influence her mistreatment of her daughter and herself. How does Carrie contribute to the conversation around the misuse of organized religion to condone gender discrimination?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. How does the prevalence of blood throughout the book engage with horror conventions? How does King’s use of the motif add new thematic layers to this genre expectation?

2. How does the author’s choice of narrative techniques impact the novel’s characterization and reveal The Destructive Impact of Othering? 

3. Citing evidence from the text, analyze how King uses specific literary devices to create suspense.

4. In what ways does Sue function as a foil for both Carrie and Chris? What does this connection reveal about each of the three characters?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Imagine a sequel about Sue. What new challenges might she face, and how might her personal journey resemble or differ from Carrie’s?

2. Create a playlist that captures the horror novel’s suspenseful mood. Share why you selected these songs.