When the Moon Was Ours

Discuss Aracely’s choice to keep the truth of her identity from Miel. How does her decision contribute to the novel’s theme of Family Versus Independence? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

How does Anna-Marie McLemore use the motif of water to establish the novel’s theme of Transformation? Why do you think the river treated Miel and Leandro differently and transformed them in different ways?

Discuss Sam and Miel as dual-protagonists of the novel. What does McLemore accomplish by exploring these two contrasting perspectives?

Discuss Ivy’s apology to Miel at the end of the novel. In what ways does it signal a Transformation for Ivy? What importance does the novel place on making amends?

Sam and Miel both feel a responsibility for the other. How does this responsibility shape the choices that they make, and what role does it play in their romantic arc? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

When Sam undergoes a lovesickness cure, he ultimately chooses to retain his lovesickness as an integral part of himself. In what ways does this choice underscore the novel’s exploration of Gender Identity and Self-Acceptance?

Compare Sam’s relationship with his mother to Miel’s relationship with Aracely. What insight does each relationship offer on the novel’s theme of Family Versus Independence?

The novel uses select fairytale motifs, such as Cinderella pumpkins and a glass coffin. How do these literary allusions contribute to the story’s broader themes? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.