One of Us is Lying

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of death by suicide, emotional abuse, and bullying.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How did you react to the revelation that Simon orchestrated his own death as an elaborate revenge plot against his classmates?

2. One of Us is Lying both embraces and challenges the teenage stereotypes established in the opening chapter. How does it compare to other books that do this, like Nic Stone’s Odd One Out or classic teen movies like The Breakfast Club?

3. The novel opens with high-stakes drama but builds to explore deeper issues of identity and acceptance. Which aspect of the story resonated with you the most and why?

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

1. Each character keeps secrets to protect parts of their identity. When have you felt the need to hide part of yourself from others?

2. Addy’s dramatic transformation after cutting her hair represents her desire to break free from Jake’s control. Can you recall a time when you made a significant outward change that represented an internal shift?

3. In what ways has your relationship with social media evolved over time?

4. Cooper struggles with the tension between his authentic self and the person his father wants him to be. Have you ever faced similar pressure to conform to someone else’s vision of your life?

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

1. Technology transforms how rumors spread in the novel through Simon’s app. How has social media changed the dynamics of gossip in contemporary high school settings compared to previous generations?

2. What does the novel suggest about how different family structures and expectations impact adolescent development?

3. How have societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ youth changed since this book was published in 2017?

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

1. What impact does the shifting first-person narrative have on your understanding of the novel?

2. McManus’s exploration of stereotyping evolves from Simon’s initial labeling of the characters to their growth beyond these prescribed roles. How does this progression enhance the book’s message about identity?

3. How do symbolic elements like Addy’s hair and Cooper’s nickname, “Cooperstown,” reflect character growth throughout the story?

4. What does the title One of Us is Lying contribute to the novel? What impression does it give to someone just picking up the book?

5. McManus structures the novel in three parts with subtitles: “Simon Says,” “Hide-and-Seek,” and “Truth or Dare.” How do these childhood game references connect to the progression of the plot and character development?

6. Empathy emerges as a powerful counterforce to gossip in the novel. How do the characters develop this quality, and how does it transform their relationships?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Write a brief description of the Bayview Four’s lives 10 years after the events of the novel.

2. The story highlights the harmful impact of Simon’s gossip app. Design an alternative online platform that fosters positive connections while addressing teenagers’ need for self-expression.

3. How would you adapt this novel into a different format, such as a podcast, stage play, or documentary?

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