Fiction often contains clear heroes and villains; however, in real life, people don’t always fit so easily into a single category. How does Tate depict potentially problematic figures in her life (such as her parents and romantic partners)? Are they just villains? If not, what does Tate do to redeem or humanize them?

Is group an entirely positive experience for Christie? If so, why? If not, describe at least two encounters that are counterproductive to her healing process and discuss how she overcomes them.

How does Christie demonstrate that she has accepted David’s death and her feelings about it? How does she feel about beach vacations by the memoir’s end?

Why did Tate choose a career in law, and how does this choice frame her personality and the way she approaches her personal problems?

How does Christie usually handle social eating situations? How does this evolve as she connects with others?

Tate uses strong sensory imagery to create vivid scenes throughout the memoir. Identify a description of each of the five senses—taste, touch, sight, smell, and sound—and discuss how it thematically relates to Christie’s emotional journey.

Why does finding out that Christie is number one in her law class prompt her to have thoughts of suicide? How does this moment inspire her to try a new form of therapy?

Compare and contrast Christie and her other group members. Who are most similar to her, and who are the most different? How does each contribute to her journey, and how does she contribute to theirs?