- Almost a third of the book involves Dominick's youth in the 1950s and 60s. Another third consists of Domenico's memoirs from the 1900s. Why does Lamb give us such an in-depth look into the past?
- This is a long book. What besides its length gives it an epic feeling?
- Dr. Patel draws parallels between Dominick's journey and classic heroes. Which classic heroes does Dominick remind you of, and why?
- Why did Lamb set the present-day events of the novel in the 1990s? How does the historical context of that time influence the story?
- Is Dominick a believable narrator? Is he likeable? How would the book be different if told from another character's perspective? Whose side of the story would you want to hear?
- How does Dominick achieve redemption? What do you think his life will be like after the end of the novel?
- The concept of "survival of the fittest" is brought up by multiple characters in the book. How do different characters (Thomas, Leo, etc.) view this concept? How does "survival of the fittest" apply to the events of the novel?
- Why do you think Oprah liked this book so much?
- Have you read any other books by Wally Lamb (She's Come Undone, The Hour I First Believed, We Are Water)? If so, what themes often recur in Lamb's novels?