Are you in a book group? “Pinocchio’s Guide to the End of the World” makes a great group read. Eva Moon is happy to attend your book group meeting (in person if in the Seattle area, or via Zoom) to discuss the book and answer questions. Just ask!
Spoiler alert! This guide is intended for people and groups who have already read the book.
- Do you have a favorite character? Who would you most like to have dinner with? Travel with? Who would you most want to have your back in a tense situation?
- Who would you cast in the movie version of the book? Who should direct it?
- Pinocchio struggles with impostor syndrome – the persistent feeling that he’s presenting a false front – that he’s not like other people and they would think less of him if they knew the “real” him. Is this something you’ve struggled with in your own life? How have you coped? What advice would you give him?
- Why do you think the author chose to set the novel in a realistic Europe in the years between the world wars? How did the setting affect the story? Have you been to or would you like to visit any of the places mentioned in the book? Is there another place or time you think might have worked as well or better?
- Do you have any theories about the blue jewel? What is it, where did it come from, what is its purpose? Did you like how magic was incorporated into a real world setting?
- When Serafina rejects Pinocchio, he goes off the deep end. Would you have forgiven Serafina after hearing her explanation? Have you ever had to carry the burden of a secret to protect someone else? How have you dealt with betrayal in your own life?
- When did you realize the Blue Lady was not what she seemed? If it was before Pinocchio did, what tipped you off?
- What character or plot revelations surprised you the most? Were any of the twists so obvious you saw them coming? Or so unbelievable they detracted from the story?
- What are some ways that Pinocchio learns what it means to be human and to accept himself as he is? How do you know you’re real?
- Is there anything you’d change about the story? The title? The cover?
- How did this book impact you? Are there lingering questions you’re still thinking about? Do you think you’ll remember it in a few years? Do you think you might re-read it? Who do you know who really ought to read it?
- If you could ask the author anything, what would you ask?
