The Poppy Fields

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your overall impressions of this book’s depiction of grief and loss?

2. Which of the characters were the most and least likeable to you, and why? How would you rate Ellis and Ava, in particular, in terms of likeability?

3. Compare this novel to Nikki Erlick’s first book, The Measure. Do you see common themes, stylistic elements, or other literary devices in her work?

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

1. Have you lost someone close to you? How does your experience of grief compare to that of any of the characters in this novel?

2. Where do you stand on the issue of the sleep treatment? Do you view it as a tool to help the grieving process along or as a dangerous way to sidestep an important part of life and loving? Explain your answer.

3. Do you think that the way Ellis responded to the demands of career versus the importance of family is sympathetic? Why or why not?

4. How does this novel speak to your perspective on startup culture and a technological age in which ideas that once seemed like science fiction are increasingly possible?

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

1. Discuss the novel’s depiction of protest culture. How does its exploration of protest movements add to its narrative depth? How does the novel enter into current real-life conversation about this topic?

2. Consider the role of nature in the novel and in the grieving process. How does Erlick’s use of the setting reflect contemporary conversation about the importance of nature to healing and growth?

3. The novel probes the ethics of grief treatments. How does it contribute to historical and current conversations on this topic?

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

1. How does the road trip itself function symbolically within the narrative, and how does it add to the story?

2. Discuss Ray’s characterization. How would you say that he defines masculinity, and how does that impact his identity as a whole?

3. Discuss the use of poppies as symbols within the novel. What broader significance do they have?

4. Consider Erlick’s use of setting in the novel. How do the various settings contribute to the novel’s exploration of grief and healing?

5. Discuss Sky’s characterization. What lessons does she teach the group?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. In a film or television adaptation of this novel, who would you cast in the lead roles? Are there elements of the plot that you would change, omit, or emphasize?

2. Imagine a sequel to this novel set a year after the narrative ends. Where are the major characters now?

3. Develop a road-trip playlist for the group. Which songs would you include, and why? Consider the successes and setbacks that the characters experience and arrange your songs accordingly.