Richie is the obvious antagonist of the book, but the narrative offers no explanation for his behavior. In your opinion, why is Richie the way he is? Why is he angry and hateful and dangerous?

Compare and contrast the various male authority figures presented in the book, including Richie, Park’s dad, Eleanor’s dad, and Mr. Stressman. Why does Rowell offer this different examples, and what conclusions does the book come to about the best qualities of a male role model and authority figure?

Discuss Eleanor’s relationship with her siblings. How does their situation differ from her own, and how does that affect their relationship?

Bullying is a theme that recurs throughout the book. How does the author handle the issue of bullying? What are ultimate repercussions of bullying in the novel, and how do they contribute to the novel’s assertions on the topic?

Although the novel is centered mainly on Eleanor’s experience in her family, it also touches on the topic of spousal abuse. How does this attention contribute to the novel’s overall treatment of abuse within the family?

Park said “I love you” to Eleanor, but she never says the words back. Why do you think Eleanor was hesitant to verbalize her love, even though she obviously feels deeply for Park?

Consider Eleanor’s decision to live with her uncle in St. Paul in light of her various options. Do you think that Eleanor’s decision to live with her uncle in St. Paul is the right one? Why or why not?

Discuss Eleanor’s decision, at the end of the novel, not to answer Park’s letters. Why do you think she refused to even open his letters?