Know My Name: A Memoir

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

1. Miller describes various coping mechanisms she uses to deal with trauma, including dissociation and art. What healthy coping strategies have you developed to handle difficult situations? 

2. Throughout the memoir, Miller struggles with the concept of forgiveness. How do you define forgiveness? What role do you see it as playing in healing?

3. Miller finds strength in connecting with other survivors and sharing her story. Have you ever found strength in community during challenging times?

4. How did Miller’s descriptions of her relationship with her sister, Tiffany, resonate with your own familial relationships? What does her story reveal about the ripple effects of trauma on families?

5. Miller describes feeling pressure to present herself in particular ways during the trial. Have you ever felt pressure to conform to others’ expectations? How did you handle it?

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

1. How does Miller’s memoir illuminate the intersection of gender, race, and privilege in the American justice system? What systemic issues does she expose?

2. In what ways does Miller’s experience with Stanford University reflect broader institutional responses to sexual assault? What changes does she suggest are needed?

3. Does Miller’s critique of media coverage of sexual assault cases remain relevant today? What progress, if any, has been made since her case?

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

1. How does Miller use the jar metaphor throughout the memoir to represent her relationship with trauma? What other recurring symbols did you notice?

2. Consider Miller’s choice to refer to herself as “Emily Doe” during certain portions of the narrative. How does this contribute to readers’ understanding of her experience?

3. How does Miller’s background as an artist influence her writing style? What role does creativity play in her healing process?

4. Analyze Miller’s use of second-person address when speaking directly to other survivors. What effect does this create?

5. How does Miller’s incorporation of other voices and stories (such as those of Dr. Christine Ford and the Larry Nassar survivors) strengthen her narrative?