The Crash
54 pages • 1-hour read
Freida McFaddenThe Crash
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Book Club Questions
General Impressions
Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of rape.
Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.
1. What parts of the plot or aspects of the writing kept you most engaged? Were there any plot turns that really surprised you?
2. How did your overall reading experience of The Crash compare to that of other books in the psychological thriller and crime fiction genres? If you’ve read other books by Freida McFadden, like The Boyfriend or Ward D, how does The Crash compare?
3. Did you find the resolution satisfying? Why or why not?
Personal Reflection and Connection
Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.
1. Discuss how Polly’s actions and backstory made you feel. Could you relate to her, or did you find her unsympathetic?
2. Reflect on a time in your life when you misjudged a person or situation because of cognitive bias or a time when you witnessed cognitive bias in action. What were the circumstances, and how did unconscious bias influence the outcome?
3. Do you agree with the book’s portrayal of right and wrong as nuanced and subjective concepts? Do you see Hank’s crime as more justified than Polly’s? Why or why not?
4. Does the novel’s portrayal of maternal instinct seem authentic? Have you experienced wanting something badly enough that you lost sight of your ethical values?
Societal and Cultural Context
Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.
1. Tegan’s experiences with the aftermath of rape can be viewed as social commentary on how society treats sexual assault survivors. Discuss the role of literature in addressing social ills and why it may or may not be an effective advocate for change.
2. How does The Crash approach the subject of gender roles? Does it advocate any particular views about men, women, marriage, and procreation?
Literary Analysis
Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.
1. Analyze how the setting influences and interacts with the story’s plot and mood.
2. Discuss how the book’s dual narration and alternating points of view help to develop its themes and characters.
3. Compare the conflicts—both internal and external—faced by Tegan and Polly. How does their juxtaposition within the narrative add nuance and complexity to the book’s thematic messages?
4. Compare the text’s antagonists (Polly, Dennis, and Simon) and discuss how their portrayals reflect trends in literature and society.
5. Analyze the role that Hank’s character plays in shaping the plot and creating tension and suspense.
Creative Engagement
Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.
1. Tegan’s escape strategies don’t work, partly because they’re based on false assumptions about Hank and Polly’s lives and relationship and partly because of external obstacles outside her control. Come up with a more effective escape plan for her and discuss why it would work.
2. Hank’s intimidating physical appearance is emphasized as part of a thematic look at perception versus reality. Sketch what Hank looks like in your mind (feel free to take creative license for effect) and discuss how the text inspired your artistic choices.
3. Imagine that instead of being stranded on a desert island, you’re going to be held captive in a basement, and you can choose one item to take with you. What item would you choose, and why?
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