Questions About Wishin' and Hopin'

by Wally Lamb (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (5)

Has anyone on GoodReads read "Wishin' and Hopin'"? I am a Wally Lamb fan and just noticed this book as one he wrote. I just saw the movie this Christmas season for the first time (bound to become a Christmas classic) and fell in love with it. I didn't pay attention to the credits that would have informed me the movie was based on a book by Wally Lamb.

Annette Reynolds Happy New Year, Nancy! If you're a Wally Lamb fan I think you'll love "Wishin' and Hopin'."

I read it a couple of months ago and reviewed it here: htt …moreHappy New Year, Nancy! If you're a Wally Lamb fan I think you'll love "Wishin' and Hopin'."

I read it a couple of months ago and reviewed it here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...

It's a darling novella and had no idea there was a movie! So thanks for the info!!

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I notice in the synopsis above it mentions "...the iconic Annette!" Is this book part of a series?

Charlene The main character, 5th grader Alex, is supposedly a distant cousin to Annette Funicello of Mouseketeers and Beach Party movie fame.

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Is it a good pick for a book club?

Tracey Curtis Sure, as long as all members celebrate Christmas and aren't Jewish or Black. Fun is made of the one Black class member in the 5th grade class. Jews ar…moreSure, as long as all members celebrate Christmas and aren't Jewish or Black. Fun is made of the one Black class member in the 5th grade class. Jews are only mentioned as those who don't believe.(less)

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This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)

Laura Yes, it is fun, and nostalgic, especially for those of us who went to Catholic school.

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I am looking for discussion questions, but have been unsuccessful so far- any ideas?

Helen 1) What effect does having an older kid in class, have on elementary-school students?
2) Is it helpful that the teacher teaches the children French?
3) …more1) What effect does having an older kid in class, have on elementary-school students?
2) Is it helpful that the teacher teaches the children French?
3) How is mental illness perceived in this book?
4) What effect does the goody-goody student have on the class? How did her parents seem to raise her?
5) Describe the pros and cons of the Russian girl's personality.
6) What are some of the lines that show you that the author really knows how children think and feel?
7) Do you think the followup lines accurately describe the future?
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