How to Lose Your Mother: A Daughter's Memoir

How does Jong-Fast use the concept of “losing” a mother in multiple ways throughout the memoir? Analyze at least three different meanings of loss that she explores.

Discuss the role of addiction and recovery in shaping Jong-Fast’s understanding of family dynamics. How does her sobriety influence her perspective on her childhood and current relationships?

Examine the role of caregivers and hired help throughout the memoir. What does Jong-Fast’s reliance on paid assistance reveal about class, privilege, and family obligation? In your answer, be sure to consider the author’s own perspective on her actions.