Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How did you feel about the novel’s many narrators? Did having so many narrators get in the way of enjoying the novel? Or did it deepen your appreciation? Who was your favorite narrator and why?

2. How do you feel about the novel’s shift away from the Singer’s ambush in the second half of the novel? Did you feel that the novel lost focus or expand its scope?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Have you ever had a personal interaction with a celebrity? Share whether the encounter reinforced that celebrity’s public image or if you learned something about their private character.

2. The novel explores factionalism and the conflict it engenders. What examples of factionalism have you encountered in your own communities?

3. Are you or is anyone you know a member of a diaspora? What factors led to their departure from their country of origin? How have they adjusted to life in their new country?

4. Nina is characterized by her resistance to learning about politics. How often do you think about politics? Is thinking about politics futile or does it mobilize you to be a more active member of your community?