Out of The Easy Reading Guide & Discussion Questions

Book Club Discussion Questions

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For supplemental discussion material see our Beyond the Book article, Norma Wallace, New Orleans' Last Madam and our BookBrowse Review of Out of The Easy.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. Throughout the book, the author uses language in unexpected and original ways. Two examples include her depiction of a dejected Patrick on page 140 where she writes that his "shoulders frowned," and her description of Miss Paulsen's "taffied scalp" (p. 152). What do you think each of these phrases means? What are some other examples of imagery created by the author? Why do you believe she made these choices as an author? (Reading Standard 4)
   


2. Unlike many of the people in her life, Josie is an avid reader. How does her love of reading bring her closer to certain characters and further separate her from others? Cite specific examples from the book. (Reading Standard 1)
   


3. Why does Josie become obsessed with Forrest Hearne, a stranger she met only once? How do her thoughts about him change after his death? Cite specific evidence to support your answers. (Reading Standard 2)
   

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