Sandwich

Sandwich is, in part, a frank portrayal of both the physical and emotional difficulties of perimenopause. Find another novel that explores women navigating middle age. Compare Rocky’s experiences of perimenopause and midlife to those of the other protagonist.

Compare and contrast the novel’s different depictions of pregnancy. What broader argument might the author be making in choosing to represent both successful and unsuccessful and both joyful and traumatic pregnancies?

How do secrets function within the plot? How do secrets shape the various family relationships in the novel, and in what ways do they help create drama and suspense? Use textual evidence in responding to these questions.

How does this novel engage with the idea of emotional labor? Nick and Rocky have markedly different parenting styles, and Rocky argues that Nick’s emotionally “hands off” methods leave her to perform the bulk of the family’s emotional labor. Is Rocky’s assertion justifiable? Why or why not?

Examine how the novel depicts intergenerational differences. What kinds of social and cultural divides exist between each of the generations in this family, and how do they impact the family’s relationships? Include textual evidence.

Discuss the symbolism of the novel’s title, using textual evidence to illustrate. Sandwiches are a complex symbol that connect to several key aspects of the text’s themes, motifs, and characterizations. Why did the author choose Sandwich as a title, and what does she mean by it?

How do Rocky and Nick cope with their aging parents? How might the difficulties inherent in their relationship with Alice and Mort reflect some of the moments of disconnection that Rocky and Nick have with their own children?

Discuss the novel’s interest in nostalgia and the passage of time. How do Rocky’s memories of family life and parenting shape her as a character? Does Rocky need to “let go” of some of her melancholy, or are her many, repetitive moments of reflection part of healthy processing? In building an argument, use textual evidence to illustrate.