Unsheltered

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Kingsolver structures Unsheltered around two parallel stories taking place in the same location but different time periods. What did you find most effective or ineffective about this dual narrative approach?

2. Unsheltered explores themes of economic insecurity, societal change, and scientific progress. Similar themes appear in many of Kingsolver’s other novels, including Flight Behavior and The Poisonwood Bible. Which of her works do you think addresses these themes most effectively and why?

3. What aspects of being “unsheltered”—physically, intellectually, emotionally—resonated most strongly with you as a reader?

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

1. Willa struggles with financial insecurity despite having done “everything right” according to conventional wisdom regarding education and career paths. Have you ever experienced similar disillusionment with promised paths to security?

2. In contrast to Willa, Tig rejects conventional success and embraces a more sustainable lifestyle. Are there aspects of her approach to life that resonate with you?

3. The novel explores how different generations respond to social and economic change. Which character’s perspective most closely aligns with your own views on adapting to societal shifts?

4. Mary Treat and Thatcher Greenwood both face ostracism for their scientific beliefs in the 1870s. When have you stood by a principle despite social pressure to conform?

5. Both Willa and Thatcher deal with houses literally falling apart around them. What places or structures have provided you with a sense of shelter and security in your life?

6. Willa reflects that “a mother can only be as happy as her unhappiest child” (56). In what ways does this sentiment reflect your own observations or experiences, either as a caregiver or from observing caregivers in your life?

Explore broader implications and cultural relevance.

1. Unsheltered addresses contemporary political and social tensions through both its modern storyline and its historical one. What parallels do you see between the social divisions in Thatcher’s time and those in our current era?

2. The novel portrays immigration and American identity in both the 19th century and the present day through characters like Nick, Jorge, and the immigrant workers in Vineland. What insight does this dual-era portrayal offer for understanding current discussions about immigration?

3. Both timelines feature charismatic leaders who promote self-serving narratives that many people unquestioningly accept. How can societies better evaluate the messages of such figures? Does the novel offer any insights into this issue?

Examine technical and thematic elements.

1. What role does the symbolism of shelter play throughout the novel?

2. The parallel storylines eventually reveal connections between Thatcher’s and Willa’s houses. In what ways do these connections enhance the thematic connections between the two time periods?

3. How do the seasons and weather function as both practical challenges and symbolic elements in both storylines. What purpose does this serve in unifying the dual narratives?

4. What do mother-child relationships have in common throughout the novel, from Willa and her children to Tig and Dusty. What do these relationships reveal about the novel’s view of family continuity across generations?

5. How does Kingsolver’s characterization of Mary Treat comment on contemporary attitudes toward science and gender?

6. The novel ends with both Willa and Thatcher moving on from their deteriorating houses in Vineland. What meaning can we derive from this parallel resolution?

Encourage imaginative interaction with the text.

1. If you were to add a third timeline to Unsheltered, set in another era at the same location in Vineland, what historical period would you choose and why?

2. Imagine a conversation between Mary Treat and Tig about their views on sustainability and the relationship between humans and the natural world. What insights might they offer each other?

3. Consider the future of Dusty, being raised by Tig and Jorge in their renovated carriage house. What might his life look like in 20 years?

Need more inspiration for your next meeting? Browse all of our Book Club Resources