Big Books of 2026
Disappearing Earth

Questions About Disappearing Earth

by Julia Phillips (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (35)

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John Addiego Like Karen, I loved the ending. A crazily shocking surprise is really hard to pull off, but I thought the author did it. At first I thought there migh…moreLike Karen, I loved the ending. A crazily shocking surprise is really hard to pull off, but I thought the author did it. At first I thought there might be a dream narrative or earlier time involved, but the mention of the other abductee made it clear. So, why was it plausible for me (besides the fact that I really wanted it to be true)? The extreme geographical and cultural factors, the isolation, harsh climate, racism, historical and political backgrounds all contribute. It's an amazing novel in stories. Maybe the intention is that if we listen to each other's stories, we can find the answers, even the missing girls, that we failed to believe possible to save.(less)
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What happened to the DOG???
Sarah I really wish this had been resolved as well. I think this chapter upset me more than anything else in this book.
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I am astounded at your knowledge of Russia. Is that from research or personal experience?
Julia Phillips That is super, super kind to say – thank you. Both research and personal experience went into this book: I studied Russian for a long time and lived f…moreThat is super, super kind to say – thank you. Both research and personal experience went into this book: I studied Russian for a long time and lived for about two years in Russia.(less)
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This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)
Elena J. Wow I did not pick up on that - makes sense now!
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What were the clues that led the reader to put together who took the girls? According to the NPR review "If you're paying attention, you may figure out who took the girls". While I tried my best to pay attention, I did not figure it out and would love to hear the clues that led other readers to put it together. (This had no bearing on my total enthrallment and enjoyment of the book, I'm just curious!) Thanks!
Sara I didn't figure it out either. I thought it was Ruslan, I really wanted it to be Ruslan because then maybe there was hope he'd rot in jail and maybe K…moreI didn't figure it out either. I thought it was Ruslan, I really wanted it to be Ruslan because then maybe there was hope he'd rot in jail and maybe Ksyusha and Chander could finally be together lol.(less)
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