Hello Goodbye Reading Guide & Discussion Questions

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Hello Goodbye by Emily Chenoweth

Hello Goodbye

A Novel

by Emily Chenoweth
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  • Critics' Consensus (4):
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  • First Published:
  • May 5, 2009, 288 pages
  • Paperback:
  • Jun 2011, 304 pages
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Book Club Discussion Questions

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For supplemental discussion material see our Beyond the Book article, The White Mountain National Forest and our BookBrowse Review of Hello Goodbye.


Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

  1. The novel is told from three different perspectives: Abby's, Elliott's, and Helen's. Whom do you see as the central character? Which is your favorite?
  2. Although death is very much a large part of Hello Goodbye, the book doesn't feel depressing. Why do you think that's the case? What elements does Chenoweth include in her story that prevent it from being too sad of a read?
  3. How does the setting of the hotel and its grounds affect the plot and characters? Why do you think Chenoweth chose this particular location? How does she use nature symbolically?
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  1. How does the author develop themes of identity and belonging throughout the narrative?
  2. What role does the setting play in shaping the characters' decisions and relationships?
  3. Discuss how the ending reframes the events of the story. Were you surprised?


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

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