Above All Things Reading Guide & Discussion Questions

Book Club Discussion Questions

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For supplemental discussion material see our Beyond the Book article, Glorious Failures and our BookBrowse Review of Above All Things.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. The novel is told in three different narratives: that of Ruth, of George, and of Sandy. What do you think the reader gains by being able to see the viewpoints of these three main characters? What does each of these perspectives bring to the telling of the story?
2. George and Sandy's stories are told in the past tense though Ruth's is told in present tense. Why do you think that is? Ruth's story is told over the course of one day, whereas George and Sandy's are told over a period of time. How do these different time frames enhance the novel?
3. When asked why he wanted to climb Mount Everest, George Mallory replied, "because it's there." In your opinion, why did George attempt Everest the first time? Do you think his reasoning was different for his final, fated attempt? Why do people embark on similar endeavors, such as running marathons, skydiving, rock climbing, etc.? Have you or would you ever consider a challenge like these?

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