Long Island Compromise Reading Guide & Discussion Questions

Book Club Discussion Questions

Print PDF

For supplemental discussion material see our Beyond the Book article, The Dybbuk of Jewish Folklore and our BookBrowse Review of Long Island Compromise.

Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. Have you ever known a family like the Fletchers? What were they like? What myths were built around them?
2. Reflecting on the Fletcher family's story, how do you think the title Long Island Compromise relates to the novel's exploration of trauma, wealth, family dynamics, and the pursuit of happiness? What does the idea of "compromise" signify in the context of the family's journey?
3. The Fletcher family is portrayed as resuming their "prized places in the saga of the American dream" after Carl's return. Discuss how the novel examines the concept of the American dream through this family's experiences. Do you think their understanding of the dream changes over time? How has your family defined the American dream?

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