49 pages • 1-hour read
Maybe in Another Life
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Book Club Questions
General Impressions
Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussions of mental illness, emotional abuse, and illness or death.
Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.
1. How did you respond to the novel's parallel storyline structure? Did you find yourself favoring one timeline over the other? If so, why? Consider comparing this novel to Reid's Daisy Jones & The Six, which also employs an unconventional narrative structure.
2. The novel begins with 29-year-old Hannah feeling lost and purposeless. How effectively does Reid capture the experience of feeling adrift in early adulthood?
3. What was your initial reaction to the pivotal moment at the homecoming party? How did your expectations about the consequences of Hannah's choice align with the events that actually unfolded?
Personal Reflection and Connection
Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.
1. Throughout much of the novel, Hannah struggles to find her purpose. Have you experienced similar feelings of uncertainty about your life's direction? How did you navigate that period?
2. The book explores the concept of "home" as more than just a physical place. What does "home" mean to you, and how has your definition evolved over time?
3. Both storylines feature profound moments of personal transformation that are triggered by unexpected events. Can you recall a time when an unexpected circumstance led to significant personal growth?
4. Hannah and Gabby maintain their friendship despite significant life changes. How do your own friendships adapt to major life transitions?
5. The characters frequently discuss the concept of soulmates. How has your own perspective on soulmates evolved over the years?
Societal and Cultural Context
Examine the book's relevance to broader societal issues, cultural trends, and ethical dilemmas.
1. How does the novel address society's expectations about the "right" timeline for major life events such as career establishment, marriage, and parenthood?
2. The book challenges traditional notions of family through Hannah's relationship with the Hudsons. How does this issue reflect the changing definitions of family in contemporary society?
3. How does the novel's treatment of infidelity and divorce reflect modern attitudes toward marriage and commitment?
Literary Analysis
Dive into the book's structure, characters, themes, and use of narrative techniques.
1. How does Reid use the symbol of cinnamon rolls throughout the novel? What concepts does this image symbolize, and how is its reappearance used to develop the characters and relationships?
2. Compare and contrast Hannah's relationship with Henry and her relationship with Ethan across both timelines. What do these relationships reveal about Hannah's character development?
3. How does the hospital setting function as both a physical location and a metaphor in the story?
4. How does Reid develop the theme of fate versus choice throughout both storylines? Does the novel ultimately favor one perspective over the other?
5. How does the author use parallel scenes and situations across the two timelines to explore different aspects of Hannah's character?
Creative Engagement
Encourage imaginative interaction with the text.
1. If you could create a third timeline for Hannah (one that stems from the homecoming party) what choice would you have her make, and why?
2. Imagine that you are adapting this novel for the screen. How would you portray the different timelines? Would this story be more appropriately adapted into a movie or an episodic structure such as a miniseries?
3. If you could have a conversation with Hannah in both timelines, what advice would you give to each version of her?
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