Run, Rose, Run

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

1. AnnieLee hides her traumatic past by fabricating a backstory about growing up with survivalists in Tennessee. What situations have required you to present a modified version of your life story?

2. Consider how Ethan finds healing through crafting guitars. What types of creative activities bring you peace or purpose? 

3. Ruthanna refuses to perform publicly after the death of her daughter, Sophia, until AnnieLee inspires her return. What activities have you abandoned due to grief or trauma but later rediscovered?

4. AnnieLee’s memories of singing with her mother are significant parts of her past and help to shape her identity. Do you have any family memories that you feel played an important role in shaping who you are?

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

1. Ruthanna mentions that women receive only about 10% of country radio airplay compared to 33% in previous decades. In what other cultural spaces have you noticed similar regression in gender equality?

2. The novel contrasts authentic country traditions with the commercialized “Music Row” that disappoints AnnieLee. Can you think of any other art forms that face similar tensions between authenticity and commercialization?

3. AnnieLee’s exploitation by Gus and D represents the harsh reality of human trafficking. In what ways did the authors’ handling of this sensitive topic affect your emotional response to the story?

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

1. What significance does Ethan’s handcrafted guitar hold as a symbol in AnnieLee’s journey toward authenticity and connection?

2. In the prologue, AnnieLee jumps from a hotel balcony before flashing back in time. What effect does this narrative technique create?

3. Consider the contrasting portrayals of male figures like Clayton and Gus versus Ethan and Jack. Do you think the text comments on different expressions of masculinity? If so, how? 

4. AnnieLee’s songs, like “Dark Night, Bright Future,” contain lyrics that hint at her trauma while remaining universally relatable. What does this suggest about the relationship between personal pain and artistic expression?

5. The novel concludes as AnnieLee publicly reclaims her identity as Rose McCord at the Country Music Awards. Why is this moment so significant to her character arc?