The Barbarian Nurseries

The hero’s journey is a well-known critical theory. Do some research into the various stages. How does this book fit that mold and, more importantly, what pieces has the author omitted or changed given that Araceli, the hero character, is a modern Mexican female?

Maureen and Scott end the novel falling back into old patterns. Did they learn anything from their experience? Why or why not?

What parallels do you see between the events of the novel and current history?

The news media is a huge factor in the last section of the novel. News and fake news are also major parts of current American culture. What statements is the author making about the media? Do you agree with him?

Different characters in the novel have different ideas about parenthood. Choose two characters and compare and contrast their definitions of “good parenting.”

Is anyone to blame for the situation in the novel? If so, who? If not, why not?

John Torres’s story is told second-hand throughout most of the book. What was his life like? How did he grow and change? Why do you think he raised Scott to not embrace his Mexican heritage?

Although race is a central issue in the novel, the author also explores gender and gender roles. What is the author saying about gender and society? Do you agree? Why or why not?