Skipping Christmas

Who is more at fault in the conflict between Luther and his neighbors? Does the text make this obvious? Why or why not? What might John Grisham be arguing about his central themes in placing the blame on one party or another (or avoiding placing blame)?

What are the “real” parts of Christmas that the Kranks learn to value? What does the conflict between these “real” parts of Christmas and the materialistic excess of the holiday suggest about consumerism?

Discuss Luther’s role as an anti-hero. What makes him likable or laughable? Does he “win” in the end or not? In what sense?

Analyze and discuss the elements of satire in the story, including features such as exaggeration, irony, and humor.

Discuss what possible merit can be found in Luther’s plan to skip the holiday. Is it something you would recommend?

Luther calculates the worth of any expenditure based on the value he receives. Discuss Luther’s value system. What is important to him and what are the merits or failings of his values?

Analyze and discuss the balance between the rights of the individual and the needs of the community. Where might those competing forces come into conflict? How might balance be achieved?

Discuss Blair’s contribution to the story and how she acts as a driver of the plot.