Sep 3, 2012

The Everygirl Book Club: Then Again // week four

TheEverygirl_bookclub_thenagain

It’s the final week for Then Again, our second selection for the Random House Reader’s Circle for The Everygirl. We’ve enjoyed hearing your thoughts, feelings, and reactions to Diane’s powerful memoir and hope you’ll keep the discussion going!

We’ve posted some questions below, but feel free to offer your own thoughts, questions, and opinions. And remember that our commenting programming allows you to reply directly to one another’s comments and get e-mail alerts when new comments are posted, allowing everyone to engage in conversation. That way, time zone and location is not a concern, and the conversation can continue all week.

Discussion Questions:

In Chapter 12, Diane talks about the experience of adopting Dexter and the development of their special mother-daughter relationship. How does Diane’s relationship with Dexter mirror her relationship with her own mother, Dorothy?

What are your thoughts about Diane becoming a mother later in life?

Diane says, “One of the biggest benefits of having siblings is a shared history.” For those of you with siblings, do you agree?

What were your thoughts and reactions as you read about Dorothy’s battle with Alzheimer’s?

How would you answer this question posed by Diane on page 239: “How do we focus on some aspect of information that will help forge a path to an emotionally fulfilling life?”

Death is a topic Diane explores several times throughout her story, particularly in Chapter 14 with the loss of her mother. What did you learn from Diane’s experiences? How have you coped with the deaths of loved ones and friends?

This quote was Scotch-taped to Dorothy’s workroom wall: “Memories are simply moments that refuse to be ordinary.” What are some of your favorite memories? Why are they special to you?

We want to know your overall opinion about the book. What was your favorite part? Did you enjoy reading a memoir or do you prefer novels? What struck you most about Diane and Dorothy’s relationship?

  • http://twitter.com/DreamGreenDIY Carrie Waller

    After reading about Diane’s experiences with adoption in her fifties, I actually opened up the idea for discussion with my husband. It’s an interesting concept and I definitely applaud Diane for making the choice that she did. Adopting a child is ALWAYS an admirable decision, but I can’t help but feel for Dexter and Duke later on in their life. The thought of losing my parents in my twenties/thirties (which is likely for Diane’s kids) is heartbreaking.

    I do agree that “one of the biggest benefits of having siblings is a shared history.” I like that I can reflect on the past with my sister and have someone that TRULY understands why I am the way I am because of family influences.

    Dorothy’s battle with Alzheimer’s was heartbreaking to read, and even more so when seen so vividly through Diane’s eyes. I can’t imagine that level of pain in seeing your mother crumbling under the pressure of such a terrible disease. Diane’s strength is inspiring. I’m so glad that she was able to honor her mother in such a big way through this memoir. 

    Overall, I really enjoyed reading the book. I ended up buying a couple of Diane’s movies to complete the acquaintance visually on top of what I had already learned in her book. It was fun to step out of my comfort zone with a memoir. 

  • Keggy25

    You have made this book look amazing. I cannot wait to get mine!! How many books have you guys read? The two I can see? Thanks

  • http://thehistoryofever.com/ Brianna

    I was totally behind on this book club schedule, but I LOVED THIS book. Diane is so awesomely weird and honest!! I can’t wait for the next book club announcement!

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