Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your overall impressions of this book’s depiction of ordinary life? Did you enjoy its simplicity? Why or why not?

2. Which was your favorite character, and why?

3. Have you read books by other authors that privilege simplicity over fast pacing, like Durian Sukegawa’s Sweet Bean Paste (2013)? How do they compare to Leonard and Hungry Paul?

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

1. Are you an introvert or an extrovert? How did you relate to this novel’s depiction of introversion and extroversion?

2. How did you relate to Grace’s desire to help her parents and her brother find greater independence? Do you have experience in family relationships either as a protector or as the one being sheltered?

3. Did you think that Shelley’s reaction to Leonard was realistic? What do you think motivates her as a character? Have you had to figure out when to introduce new friends or romantic partners to family members? How did you navigate this?

4. The novel depicts how ideas about family life and relationships are passed down through the generations. What have you internalized about connection from your family? How have you transformed what you’ve learned?

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

1. Western society often values extroversion over introversion. How does this novel argue for the importance of introverts in society? What qualities do introverts embody that are ultimately good for society as a whole?

2. The novel depicts two men who are slow to mature, but it does so without judgment about their lives. How does this speak to contemporary concerns about overly extended adolescence, such as otaku culture in Japan, which is typically depicted with contempt?

3. What broader point about kindness is the author making? What is the role of kindness in a world in which communication, especially online, is increasingly acrimonious and vitriolic?

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

1. What impact do the multiple perspectives have on the narrative? Why did the author choose to focus closely on each of the characters rather than telling the story entirely from one point of view?

2. Consider Grace as a foil to Paul and Leonard. How does her childhood experience of loneliness contrast with theirs? What does it say about the way that Paul has internalized his own upbringing?

3. Compare the novel’s many parents. How do they protect, nurture, and encourage their children? What do they have in common, and how do they diverge? What is the novel saying about parent-child bonds?

4. What is the symbolic meaning of the novel’s many examples of creative output? What do Shelley and Patrick’s illustrations, Leonard’s novel, Paul’s email sign-off, and Helen’s cooking (or lack thereof) represent? How do these elements support the novel’s themes?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. What do you think of the casting for the series adaptation of this book? Have you seen these actresses and actors in other films? How would you cast an adaptation of this work?

2. Imagine a sequel for this novel. What happens to Leonard and Shelley? Where do Peter and Helen go for their big vacation? Is Paul successful in his career?

3. What songs might you include on a playlist to accompany this novel?