The Accidental Tourist

What does Sarah mean when she describes Macon as “like something in a capsule” (136)? How does this relate to the traveler who describes Macon’s tour guides using the same imagery?

In some ways, Muriel fits the “Manic Pixie Dream Girl” trope through how she interacts with and affects Macon. In what ways does she exemplify this trope, and in what ways does she subvert it?

Edward’s development is an essential aspect of the first half of the novel, but he eventually fades into the background. How does this parallel Macon’s grief?

Muriel’s house comes to resemble Grandfather Leary’s house, with many people living there. In what ways are these households similar? In what ways do they contrast one another?

Rose and Julian’s relationship seems to develop in the novel's background, with little time spent on how they work as a couple. Explore how Rose and Julian are compatible. Do you believe they are destined to fail like the marriages of all the other Leary siblings? Why or why not?

Though Alexander is very much alive and well, he is a constant source of stress for Muriel because of his allergies and ailments. How does Alexander’s presence in the novel help aid the theme of grieving a child?

If Macon had stayed with Sarah, do you believe they would have worked out, or was their time together over long before their reconciliation?

What does it mean to be an “accidental tourist”? How is this idea communicated in the novel?