The Saturdays

Mona, Rush, Randy and Oliver all have unique personalities and roles in the family. How do these personalities and roles complement each other? How do they clash or lead to conflict? Do the children’s contrasting personalities influence each other over the course of the novel?

One of the story’s themes is The Fraught and Formative Bonds Between Siblings. Choose two of the Melendy siblings and reflect on their ups and downs over the course of the book. Consider points of tension, cooperation, and care, and what this reveals about their relationship.

Mrs. Oliphant is a minor but important character in the story. What do Randy’s initial perceptions of Mrs. Oliphant reveal about Randy herself? As she gets to know Mrs. Oliphant and her perceptions shift, does she learn to see herself differently as well?