Book Club Discussion Questions and Guide for The Lions of Fifth Avenue by Fiona Davis

1. Laura Lyons, despite her husband's protests, wants to be a wife, a mother, and a dedicated journalism student. Do you think women still face societal pressure today to only fill traditional roles? Do you think it's possible to "have it all"?
2. The NYPL is very important to both Laura and Sadie. Is the library important to you? What role do you think your local library plays in your community?
3. How does Sadie's character challenge stereotypes about librarians? Before reading this book, did you know the different roles they play in serving the public?
4. How did going to the Heterodoxy club change Laura? Do you see similar organizations at work today? What is the importance of having spaces where women can voice their opinions, stories, and plans for the future?
5. What do you think of how Laura handles the situation after she finds out the identity of the book thief?
6. Losing the only copy of his manuscript is a devastating blow to Jack. Do you think the act of burning the manuscript was justified? Why or why not? How do you think technology has changed the value we put on the written word?
7. In her note, Laura writes that "it was all ultimately her fault, that her own actions initiated a cascade of tragedies." Why do you think Laura believes she is responsible? Do you agree? Would things have been different if so much responsibility in the home didn't fall only to Laura?

Unless otherwise stated, this discussion guide is reprinted with the permission of Dutton. Any page references refer to a USA edition of the book, usually the trade paperback version, and may vary in other editions.