Queenie

Discuss the impact of the story’s structure—that is, a present-tense story with interjected flashbacks—on the novel. Why did Carty-Williams chose to write the book like this? Does it do the story justice? Why or why not?

Write about one thing that you think is a moral of this story, providing textual evidence.

Analyze the book through the lens of “intersectional feminism”—that is, the ways that living at the intersection of being a Black person and being a woman impact Queenie’s life.

What does this book say about the nature of love?

The role of friendship is significant in this novel. Write about Queenie’s relationships with Darcy, Kyazike, and Cassandra. Consider the importance of each friendship and how each of Queenie’s friends impact her life.

Hair is a symbol throughout the book; the book’s cover even signifies its importance. Analyze how it functions as symbol throughout the story.

What do Queenie’s interactions with and relationships to men say about masculinity, men, and patriarchy?

This book is place-based and deals with themes of immigration, displacement, and gentrification. How do these themes impact Queenie’s life, self-worth, and identity?