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Book Jacket

America for Beginners

A poignant debut that explores unlikely friendships forged in unusual ...

Summary and Reviews
Excerpt
Reading Guide

Discuss America for Beginners by Leah Franqui

What do you make of Ronnie? Is he the picture of a 'model immigrant'? What about the Iranian immigrant Mr. Ghazi?

8

Aug. 01, 2019
by acstrine

Which character do you consider yourself to be most like? Did you have a favorite? A least favorite?

6

Aug. 03, 2019
by reene

Have you had the opportunity to show overseas or out of state visitors around your area? If so, did it cause you to look differently at places you already knew?

7

Aug. 05, 2019
by beckyh

Many people in Pival's orbit are shocked by her decision to travel alone. What is so alarming to them? Are solo women travelers viewed with the same concern elsewhere?

10

Aug. 05, 2019
by beckyh

Why can't Bhim just be out and proud in this new gay-friendly country? How do Jake and Bhim navigate Bhim's deep sense of shame?

14

Aug. 08, 2019
by pennyp

Do you feel that you have more 'stuff' in your life than you need? Can societies achieve a better balance between the haves and have nots?

8

Aug. 08, 2019
by pennyp

Does the distinction between Bangladeshis and Indians matter in America? Do "illegal immigrants" in America face the same stigma as those Bangladeshis in India?

9

Aug. 08, 2019
by JLPen77

How do you feel about Rebecca's sadness and struggles compared to the other characters in the book? What does she stand to learn from the journey?

8

Aug. 09, 2019
by reene

What would be on your 'greatest hits' list if you were to arrange a two-week tour across the USA (without concern for cost or logistics)?

17

Aug. 13, 2019
by christinep

Pival observes, 'It is amazing when the person you made makes something you never could.' Have you ever thought this about children in your life?

8

Aug. 16, 2019
by xandrabk

What is your favorite museum and why?

13

Aug. 18, 2019
by juliaa

Presentation of Bengals vs. Bangladeshis

13

Aug. 21, 2019
by BuriedInPrint

Is Ronnie correct that wealthy people are the same everywhere?

9

Aug. 21, 2019
by BuriedInPrint

What do you think happens next for these characters? Where will they be five or ten years after the end of this novel?

3

Aug. 21, 2019
by BuriedInPrint

Is there a time in your life when you conformed to an expectation either without knowing why or against your better judgement, and later questioned why you did?

3

Aug. 21, 2019
by BuriedInPrint

Pival reflects that 'I do think most parents at the heart, want their children to be happy. It is only that we want our children to be happy in the right way...' Would Bhim and Rebecca agree?

10

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

Authors use of threat of suicide

15

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

How does Pival, the widow and bereaved mother in America, compare to Pival the miserable, voiceless wife in Kolkata?

9

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

While reading, did you think that Bhim might still be alive, and be reunited with his mother? Why or why not?

24

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

How do you feel about Satya's betrayal of Ravi? Is it understandable or unforgiveable?

14

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

Do you consider Ram's behavior to his wife and son abusive? What is the line between an unhappy relationship and an abusive one?

15

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

Overall, what do you think of America for Beginners?

28

Aug. 25, 2019
by teachlz

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