Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What do you think is Tori’s greatest strength, and why?

2. Did you find yourself empathizing with and relating to Tori, or were you put off by her negativity?

3. How does this book compare to the titles that it’s in conversation with, such as The Catcher in the Rye, The Perks of Being a Wallflower, or films like Donnie Darko?

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

1. Have you ever felt isolated or alone in your way of thinking or seeing the world? How did you come to terms with this feeling? Alternatively, what did you do to change it?

2. Reflect on a time in which either those around you or you yourself prioritized Feigning “Normalcy” to Fit In. How did you handle the situation? Would you do the same thing, looking back?

3. Who is the Michael in your life? Who is the person who understands you and reminds you of goodness even through dark times? What is it about them that lets them fill this role?

4. Do you think it’s important for individuals to step up and create change, even when it seems impossible or risky to do so? Have you ever done so yourself?

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

1. The Catcher in the Rye was published in 1945, and Solitaire was published in 2014. How is the adolescent experience different in the 21st century as compared to the 20th? What factors are responsible for those differences? Are there any continuities?

2. How might books that talk about distress, despair, and other negative emotions help prevent suicide and/or ensure that those with mental illnesses receive the support they need? What trends have you noticed in the conversation surrounding these topics?

3. What commentary does the novel offer on the intersection of the online world with “real life”? What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of the fact that people now spend much of their existence online?

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

1. How does the story use blogging to reflect on underlying issues of societal dysfunction and desensitization?

2. Which character’s final turnaround surprised you the most, and why?

3. What do you think the burning of the school symbolizes? Why does it end up becoming a beautiful sight?

4. What makes Tori an antihero? How can someone like Tori be the start of change?

5. How does Tori’s attitude gradually change, and what subtle shifts in her narration indicate this?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. If you could select a song to play during the final scene, what would it be, and why?

2. What kind of future do you see for Tori? What kind of career or life might she have?

3. Create a digital or physical mood board of your favorite scene from the novel, and explain why you chose each image or object.