I just spent a delightful evening around a table with a group of women who had read my book for their book club. They invited me to come and talk with them on an “author visit.” I had prepared some questions for the group and, as always, women are great at discussions.  And, being open. And at laughing and, a little bit at this particular Book Club, crying.

I have to admit that being invited to a Book Club was not something I had anticipated.  But, it was the second book club I have visited. That made me think that some discussion questions for Which Old Woman Will You Be? might be well received.

So, here are some topics to discuss, if you are so inclined.

• How did you rank on the quiz at the back of the book?

This was an interesting start of the night.  Let’s just say that this particular group of women had some very literal thinkers. (How long has the piece of cake been on the counter? What if you just refuse to discuss politics completely? I plant my garden to share, so anyone is free to pick.)

• Did you have both kinds of Grandmothers? Share about them.

It is amazing how often everyone has had both. One of mine had a television, but was a bit grumpy (maybe due to health challenges) and only watched soap operas like Guiding Light and could never be interrupted for anything. The other one didn’t have a television, but was nice and always had oatmeal raisin cookies and coca cola (in small glass bottles).

• How do you compare yourself to other women?My example in the book was a weight lifting class. 

It was great to have these women who know each other compliment one another in response to this question. “I always wish I was the hostess that Ann is.” “I wish I was as stylish as Shelly.” “I feel like <you> are always put together.” Those comparisons were great affirmations, honestly, with little comparison, in reality.

• What is one way that you are “brilliant?”  

Ah. One woman said the word, “brilliant” is intimidating. It might sound boastful? Or like too much? Or hard to consider myself as brilliant?  This is simply about being comfortable in your own skin enough that you can share your talents to bless others. I like that my choice of words sparks discussion!

• Do you think that you could become lonely?

If you are in a book club, there is the assumption that you have friends, right? But assumptions are dangerous to make. Several women in that Book Club said they had done something alone after reading Which Old Woman Will You Be?  And, they enjoyed it. Others said they find themselves staying home from something they might enjoy rather than go alone. A few said they will go to see a movie alone if they want to see it.

One woman commented that she wishes that every book had discussion questions at the end, so I am rising to the challenge. Not at the back of the published book, but here.  

Next newsletter, I will add more.