The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Do you think Addie’s curse was a fair trade for immortality? Would you make the same bargain, given the choice?
• Did you find the ending satisfying? Why or why not?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• Both Henry and Addie reflect that, in different ways, they’ll never find “real” love. What makes love real? Can love exist in a single moment, or does it need the context of memory?
• Have you ever had someone forget you in an unexpected way? How did you manage the experience?
• The creation and erasure of art forms a major part of the novel. What are your thoughts on the purpose of art? Is there value in its creation, or does it become worthless without a tangible product?
• Consider Addie’s reluctance to enter a life of unrewarding domesticity. What would you have done in her situation?

3. Societal and Cultural Context

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

• Consider the way gender dynamics are presented in the novel. How do Addie and Henry's curses reflect the way men and women are viewed in today’s society?
• Addie and Henry both agree to a Faustian bargain with Luc to achieve their goals. What could this represent in the wider world? What sort of Faustian bargains are being made today?
• Discuss the novel’s perspective on the world of galleries and fine art.

4. Literary Analysis

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

• Luc is the novel’s primary antagonist, and he is undeniably toxic in many ways. What tools does the author use to make him nuanced and sympathetic?
• What effect is created through the use of a non-chronological narrative? Why might the author have chosen to begin in the present day, rather than at the beginning of Addie’s journey?
• The book that brings Addie and Henry together is The Odyssey. What might this book symbolize within the novel?
• Compare and contrast Addie with Henry’s friend Bea. How does each fill different needs in Henry’s life?

5. Creative Engagement

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

• Choose a real-world classic painting that might have been inspired by Addie. Discuss what elements about the painting connect with her.
• Write a poem, story, or song exploring one of the key symbols in the book.
• Discuss where Addie and Luc go next, and imagine how each attempts to thwart the other.