The Quiet Librarian

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What was your reaction to the book’s depictions of wartime violence and atrocities? Which scenes were the most impactful or difficult to read, and why?

2. What do you make of Nura’s quest for revenge? Did you find that aspect of her characterization sympathetic? Why or why not?

3. Have you read other works by Eskens, like The Life We Bury or The Shadows We Hide? How does his first foray into historical fiction differ from his past thrillers?

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

1. Hana turns to exercise, while Amina seeks out therapy to process trauma. Which coping path is closer to your own during tough times? What other strategies do you use?

2. Hana believes that her clothing has an impact on others’ perceptions of her and her own state of mind. When have you changed your clothing or appearance to feel safer or stronger?

3. The blue marble becomes a touchstone for memory and courage. Think of an object you own that carries similar weight. What story does it hold?

4. What aspects of yourself have you relegated to a past self (skills, mindset, personality traits)? Which of these might you want to revive, and why?

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

1. The novel shows neighbors turning into enemies overnight. Based on what you have witnessed or heard, what causes this kind of fracture in communities today?

2. The book highlights failed protection and uneven accountability after mass violence. What do they reveal about the shortcomings of international responses to genocide and war crimes?

3. Hana lives in isolation and secrecy after immigrating, and her persona in the United States is very different from who she was in her home country. How do her story and attitude connect with those of other immigrants you know or have heard of?

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

1. Analyze the book’s narrative structure. How do the dual timelines impact the plot and characterization?

2. Discuss Detective Claypool’s character. What motivates him, and what are his values? Did you find his choice to cover up Hana’s crime believable within the context of his character? Why or why not?

3. What is the novel’s broader argument about vigilante justice? Cite two moments that argue either for or against it.

4. This book has both historical-fiction and crime-thriller elements. How does the genre shape your judgment of Hana’s character? If the story were told as reported nonfiction, do you think you’d judge her differently? Why?

5. Discuss this novel’s depiction of family. What counts as family in the world of his novel, and how does it shape the various characters?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Write a brief alternate ending to the novel where Hana chooses not to kill Luka. What legal and personal consequences follow? How does Claypool’s arc change?

2. Imagine the blue marble in a museum of personal histories. Draft a 100-word exhibit label for it.