The Collected Regrets of Clover

General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your overall impressions of Clover as a character and of her role as a death doula?

2. The relationships between Clover and her mother and Clover and Frances are emotional and complex. What aspects of Clover’s journey with each character did you enjoy the most? What did you enjoy the least?

3. Consider The Midnight Library by Matt Haig. How do both books grapple with the complexities of death, acceptance, and healing from regret?

Personal Reflection and Connection

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

1. The death of Frances is a pivotal moment for Clover that propels her to heal more fully. Have you experienced a significant loss of any kind that led you to reexamine an aspect of yourself?

2. Clover’s relationship with her mother begins to heal in part because Clover accepts her mother for who she is, as well as owning her own role in the rift. Does their relationship mirror any relationship that you have experienced? What did this help you learn about yourself?

3. Can you envision yourself working as a death doula? What would be the most challenging and rewarding aspects of this career?

4. Clover records her clients’ regrets. How do you think she creates space for so much regret? Is this something you could do for others? What might the emotional effects of such an undertaking be for you?

Societal and Cultural Context

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

1. In society, discussions of death are considered somewhat taboo, or at least very difficult to engage in. What conversations does this book potentially start that could help normalize discussions of death?

2. The word “doula” is usually used to describe someone who helps women give birth. What are some historical and cultural depictions of the similarities between death and birth?

Literary Analysis

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

1. What does the garden symbolize for Clover? How does it parallel her emotional journey?

2. Though Clover helps people face their regrets as a death doula, her internal monologue reveals her own inner turmoil. How does this style of narration add deeper meaning to the text?

3. How are flashbacks used in the novel, and why might they trigger after Clover interacts with a client? What does this highlight about the depths of her regrets, particularly regarding her mother?

4. Consider the novel’s theme of the meaning of life. How does Clover’s work with death bring her closer to understanding and reaching for what she wants in life?

5. Clover often observes and connects with birds. What do birds symbolize to her? How do their appearances shift across the text?

Creative Engagement

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. If this book were adapted into a movie, who would you cast to play Clover and Frances? Explain your choice.

2. Create a playlist that captures the overall tone of the book. What are some songs that capture the bittersweet nature and duality of the text?