Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
This topic is about
Small Great Things
Previous BOMs - Authors; M - P
>
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult (Anything Goes BOM) Starts 12 December 2016
date
newest »
newest »
Mod
At NRBC we use a more structured approach to our BOMs. We have a discussion leader and a reading date is set to start the book. A reading schedule is posted prior to the start date and discussion questions are posted each day regarding that section of the book.
More info under spoiler
(view spoiler)
Mod
Book of the Month
~ Ruby Coin How to Earn:
1 Ruby Coin for half DQ participation 1 Ruby Coin for Writing Disscussion Questions 1 Ruby Coin for completing ALL days DQs within month of BOM startExample of ways to Earn Ruby Coins: (view spoiler)
Learn about Gem coins here
message 4:
by
Moderators of NBRC, Challenger-in-Chief
(last edited Dec 19, 2016 01:07AM)
(new)
-
added it
Mod
Date Chapters Pages PPQDs
December Stage 1: Early Labor/ 1 - 132 Chava
12 & 13 Stage 1: Active Labor
December Stage 1: Transition 133 - 320 Mod
14, 15 & 16
**BREAK DAY**
December Stage 2: Pushing/ 321 - 458 Mod
18 & 19 Stage 3: Afterbirth
Mod
I'm looking forward to this one!
I was told about this book by a fellow bookworm on Next Door. So it will be great to read this one with others. Ms. Picoult's books have usually been a downer for me, so I'll see just how far I can get. It has an interesting and intriguing plot, so I'd love to see where she goes with this one.
I'm so happy my nominated book got chosen. I've been wanting to read this book and I love reading with others and hear others' thoughts. So super excited!!
I actually read this book last month for another bookclub and it is one of my favorites of the year. I thought the timing was perfect to read it with our country's current social climate.
I have to agree, Jenna. It seems pretty timely.
I am still trying to figure out how this whole thing works. I have never read this author but have good things about her so I am excited to start it.
Haven't been able to do a NBRC in a while, but going to get in on this one!
Mod
Otherwise the mods will post a short set of general questions for each section
I am happy to take day 1. As I was the one nominating this book, I feel I have to contribute too :). Waiting for the mods nod :)
Mod
Go for it Chava, thanks!
Questions for Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
Chava wrote: "Questions for Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist fat..."
Disclaimer, I am Australian so please excuse my ignorance if I have used culturally inappropriate terms
I am halfway through "Active Labour" and I will be completing the questions after I finish the whole section :) I love Picoult's writing and although I already know what the story's about it still grips me. I sometimes stumble upon the medical terms though...
Question: Anyone else here not from the USA who didn't get all the terms (eg derogatory terms and terms for pensions, etc)? I'm in Australia and I have quickly learnt not to look up some of the words out of fear people using my computer might think I use those words or am like Turk.
Chava wrote: "Questions for Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor
12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist fat..."
1) Firstly, I’d like to say that I am enjoying the way that the chapters are divided into each person’s view point. It makes the story easy to follow and gives you the ability to concentrate exactly on that person’s image, thoughts and feelings.
Ruth comes across as a hardworking, dedicated mother, family member and citizen. She pulls extra shifts at work (without complaining), has bent over backwards to give her son, Edison, everything she didn’t have in her upbringing and spends quality time with her sister Adisa, and mother in situations that her herself does not feel particularly comfortable in. I picture Ruth looking like a cross between Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey. It’s commented by Ms Mina that she doesn’t age, so I imagine her a generally pretty woman but perhaps quite plain and ordinary in her appearance and clothing.
Turk, also comes across as a compassionate family man. He clearly adores Brit, respects her father unquestionably and has taken teenage boys under his wing and protected them from prison and drugs. His views on race stem from the tragedy of losing a brother at a young age, feeling that justice was never served. From there, he met and fell in with people who had a strong influence on him and perhaps gave his life the direction he felt he was missing after losing a close family member. At gatherings where Turk has witnessed piñatas, guns etc. he continues to come across showing initial shock commenting specifically on the images. I picture Turk as a tall, strong, harsh looking man who you probably wouldn’t want to cross in the street. I don’t believe he’s handsome at all and that the marriage between him and Brit may have been pre-arranged by her father and his followers.
I’m not quite able to form an opinion of Kennedy yet as there hasn’t been much discussion about her. My initial images is of a smart, pretty woman who takes no nonsense from people.
---
2) Although I can see that Turk is not someone who I share view points on race with, you cannot help feel compassion for him losing his child in such a sudden and horrific way. Regardless whether Ruth indeed had any involvement in the death of the infant, to have a new born would be a horrendous experience for anyone, regardless of their beliefs. Piccoult states several times that Ruth sees the infant essentially as a clean slate and therefore may have grown up negating his families beliefs. As I said, he clearly adores Brit and to see her in such tremendous pain will also be difficult for him. He specifically mentions the point when she touches his hand at the funeral and things that everything could be okay, so a simple gesture such as this makes such an impact on an otherwise harsh man says a lot about his character.
---
3) Marie seems to be a quite a difficult character to show any empathy for at the moment having acted hastily in both taking Ruth off the case initially and then suspending her. She comes across as someone weak, and although in a position of power within her hospital, doesn’t have the strength to manage a team in the face of adversity. Her initial actions removing Ruth from the case was one of cowardice, trying to ‘avoid a situation’ . if Ruth was simply left on the case, we wouldn’t have a sotry! She doesn’t seem to have any sympathy for Ruth, or her situation and I suspect that the relationship between Ruth and Marie will only get worse.
---
4) I really like the relationship between Ruth and Adisa. The sisters, although living very different lives, backgrounds and beliefs share a deep connection that shines through when Ruth immediately goes to Adisa after being suspended and the sister offers admirable comfort.
---
5) The last question is a difficult one to answer without simply showing personal opinions given I’m not an American citizen and only have an outsiders point of view of the countries politics. Personally, I wouldn’t have voted for Trump given the racist and sexist remarks he has made, and continues to make. I don’t believe that anyone who is making public recorded statements should be able to give offensive opinions to either race or gender, and I see this election as a major setback for history and progress within not only America, but the world.
I’m certainly under the impression that Piccolt has carried out a lot of research for the subject matters of her book, showing knowledge in nursing, legal terms and white supremacists activities. I think it’s difficult to understand where her knowledge of the feelings and emotions of Ruth and her family come from, and although I’m enjoying the book so far, this is the only area that I’m seriously questioning.
12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist fat..."
1) Firstly, I’d like to say that I am enjoying the way that the chapters are divided into each person’s view point. It makes the story easy to follow and gives you the ability to concentrate exactly on that person’s image, thoughts and feelings.
Ruth comes across as a hardworking, dedicated mother, family member and citizen. She pulls extra shifts at work (without complaining), has bent over backwards to give her son, Edison, everything she didn’t have in her upbringing and spends quality time with her sister Adisa, and mother in situations that her herself does not feel particularly comfortable in. I picture Ruth looking like a cross between Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey. It’s commented by Ms Mina that she doesn’t age, so I imagine her a generally pretty woman but perhaps quite plain and ordinary in her appearance and clothing.
Turk, also comes across as a compassionate family man. He clearly adores Brit, respects her father unquestionably and has taken teenage boys under his wing and protected them from prison and drugs. His views on race stem from the tragedy of losing a brother at a young age, feeling that justice was never served. From there, he met and fell in with people who had a strong influence on him and perhaps gave his life the direction he felt he was missing after losing a close family member. At gatherings where Turk has witnessed piñatas, guns etc. he continues to come across showing initial shock commenting specifically on the images. I picture Turk as a tall, strong, harsh looking man who you probably wouldn’t want to cross in the street. I don’t believe he’s handsome at all and that the marriage between him and Brit may have been pre-arranged by her father and his followers.
I’m not quite able to form an opinion of Kennedy yet as there hasn’t been much discussion about her. My initial images is of a smart, pretty woman who takes no nonsense from people.
---
2) Although I can see that Turk is not someone who I share view points on race with, you cannot help feel compassion for him losing his child in such a sudden and horrific way. Regardless whether Ruth indeed had any involvement in the death of the infant, to have a new born would be a horrendous experience for anyone, regardless of their beliefs. Piccoult states several times that Ruth sees the infant essentially as a clean slate and therefore may have grown up negating his families beliefs. As I said, he clearly adores Brit and to see her in such tremendous pain will also be difficult for him. He specifically mentions the point when she touches his hand at the funeral and things that everything could be okay, so a simple gesture such as this makes such an impact on an otherwise harsh man says a lot about his character.
---
3) Marie seems to be a quite a difficult character to show any empathy for at the moment having acted hastily in both taking Ruth off the case initially and then suspending her. She comes across as someone weak, and although in a position of power within her hospital, doesn’t have the strength to manage a team in the face of adversity. Her initial actions removing Ruth from the case was one of cowardice, trying to ‘avoid a situation’ . if Ruth was simply left on the case, we wouldn’t have a sotry! She doesn’t seem to have any sympathy for Ruth, or her situation and I suspect that the relationship between Ruth and Marie will only get worse.
---
4) I really like the relationship between Ruth and Adisa. The sisters, although living very different lives, backgrounds and beliefs share a deep connection that shines through when Ruth immediately goes to Adisa after being suspended and the sister offers admirable comfort.
---
5) The last question is a difficult one to answer without simply showing personal opinions given I’m not an American citizen and only have an outsiders point of view of the countries politics. Personally, I wouldn’t have voted for Trump given the racist and sexist remarks he has made, and continues to make. I don’t believe that anyone who is making public recorded statements should be able to give offensive opinions to either race or gender, and I see this election as a major setback for history and progress within not only America, but the world.
I’m certainly under the impression that Piccolt has carried out a lot of research for the subject matters of her book, showing knowledge in nursing, legal terms and white supremacists activities. I think it’s difficult to understand where her knowledge of the feelings and emotions of Ruth and her family come from, and although I’m enjoying the book so far, this is the only area that I’m seriously questioning.
Chava wrote: "Question: Anyone else here not from the USA who didn't get all the terms (eg derogatory terms and terms for pensions, etc)? I'm in Australia and I have quickly learnt not to look up some of the wor..."
I've certainly glazed over a few of the words, but haven't felt that not understanding them is taking away from the story. I'm struggling more with the nursing terms!
I've certainly glazed over a few of the words, but haven't felt that not understanding them is taking away from the story. I'm struggling more with the nursing terms!
*This is a deep thinking set of questions, and more than I'm used to, so I'm going to do my best with what I got out of what I just read. Honest answers.*Questions for Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor
12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?
To me, Ruth is an honest and caring, sensitive person who doesn't see skin color until it's blatantly shoved in her face. Through the stress of it all, she keeps on trying to find a light at the end of the tunnel. Turk is true to the character he is written to be. What I mean is, I worked with a white supremacist who belonged to a white supremacist group( it's been awhile, so I can't remember the name of it), and the character of Turk is so similar to the person I used to work with. I was actually surprised at one moment though that it was Turk and not Brit that was going to be telling this families story. It makes sense though. You get a better background of where the hate came from, how it festered, and became as raging hot as it is now. The only thing I can think about Kennedy honestly is that she feels like a calmed down version of Jenny Lawson. That's all I have on her right now. I like her so far.
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
I definitely do not. Not a shred. I've seen it in person, the hate, so much hate that I should have seen it coming from a mile away. It's sly though in my experience, and it seems to be more explosive in Turk, but no matter what, there is no excuse for judging people based on color religion, or anything for that matter. Nothing.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
I think the manager made a bad decision here. She helped open up a can of worms about Ruth's being black when it wasn't welcome in an extreme way. Ruth is paying for this decision she made. It had a snowball effect I believe, and I think it could have been prevented if the situation went otherwise.
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
I didn't really get a firm grasp on their relationship yet to be able to answer in a strong opinion, but I think that Adisa either is jealous of Ruth, or may have a better understanding of the world we still live in, even in modern times. I'm not sure about their bond really, but I think it might get stronger after their last visit and the events to come.
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
This is the one question that I really don't feel comfortable answering for a couple of reasons. One, I don't keep up on politics that much anymore. I do what I need to, but not enough to know everything that's going on. Two, where I live, you can get in a fight if you bring up the wrong name, so since I've moved where I live now, I purposefully stay out of even thinking about political issues. I don't even know how to begin to answer this question right now.
Chava wrote: "Question: Anyone else here not from the USA who didn't get all the terms (eg derogatory terms and terms for pensions, etc)? I'm in Australia and I have quickly learnt not to look up some of the wor..."I'm from Hong Kong so I am kind of struggling too. I just stopped looking up the terms at some point but I think I still manage to follow the story haha.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?I like Ruth a lot. She is really loving and professional. I think this has very much to do with her upbringing. I mean her mother gave Ruth and Adisa the best she could give them and at a very young age, Ruth was able to see equality between different races. At every point of the book, I have been able to feel for Ruth.
I read a review on NYTimes before reading this book so I kind of knew already what it's about. So honestly I already expected what kind of a person Turk would be at the very beginning. But as I read along I start to realize more of his background and I somehow understand his hatred (although it doesn't mean I agree with him). Again, it has very much to do with his childhood, and what he has gone through all these years.
Kennedy is some kind of THE perfect woman with a stable career and a perfect family. Up to this point, I quite like her. She's smart and confident. I almost laughed when I come to the massage scene. But I also see some kind of prejudice/unconscious feelings for different races in her life (I'm not very sure how to put that...) e.g. in the spa.
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
I somehow understand why he hates people of color so much but I definitely don't like the hate. I mean, even when he discovered that it was his own brother's thought in the accident he still blamed the black man. His mind was so twisted! But I have the compassion for Turk losing his son. It's Turk's and Brit's first baby and it is definitely very hard to get through the grief.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
I don't agree with the manager's decision here. I also understand her fears. But I still I don't think it's tolerable. Granting the parents' wish means you kind of agreeing with them. I can see that she tried to convince the parents but I don't think it was adequate. Would it be more appropriate to discuss or consult others' opinions before making such decision? If I were her I would definitely try my very best to defend for Ruth.
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
I still don't know much about their relationship but I can see that their relationship is not that good. Maybe it's because Ruth's always the brighter girl and because her skin is a lot lighter than Adisa's she got treated better when they were young. So Adisa feels that she has always been at a disadvantage?
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
I live in Hong Kong so I am not very sure how to answer this question. I have been keeping track of the US election but I haven't been looking deeply into the issues. I have always noticed the racism issue and I think it makes this book more worth reading; at least by involving more people in the discussion. We are living in an era where social equality/equality among races are always stressed. But racism and discrimination still exist. So far, Small Great Things has been a thought-provoking book which has made me think more about racial equality.
Questions for Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?
I love Ruth, I am terrified of Turk and I read the chapters about him in complete horror. I don't know much about Kennedy yet, but she is the least interesting of the main characters so far.
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
I am just thankful that I was not born into a hateful family and wasn't raised like that. If you are brainwashed into hating others from the moment you are born, how will you know any differently? Having said that I still have a hard time finding compassion for him...it is very hard to read about the violent acts he commits.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
Terrible decision! She should have never been allowed to do that! Complete wimp!
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
Their bond as sisters is very strong even though they are two very different people due to their past experiences. Adisa definitely is more realistic than Ruth and Ruth is finding out how right Adisa is about race in America.
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
It could not have come out at a better time. Following the election a lot of these white supremacist groups are out of the closet and even more emboldened. Scarier times are ahead.
Mod
16 December
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
8. The title of the book comes from the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote that Ruth’s mother mentions on p. 173: "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way." What does this quote mean to you? Do you see any examples of small great things done by the characters in the novel?(Question from LitLovers)
9. Have your opinions of any of the 3 main characters (Ruth, Turk or Kennedy) changed so far? Is there one you can relate to more than the others?
10. Any predictions for the end of the novel?
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?I think she did a good job introducing all the characters and providing information about them.
I was prepared to identify with Ruth and hate Turk based on the book description. Now that we are finding out more about Turk, I can feel for him as a human and can see how he ended up thinking the way he does. It also makes me think about the youth today.
I liked Kenndy as well. I think the author has made her the stereotypically successful mom character. She seems to be very put together.
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
I have empathy and compassion for the person who has lost a child. I can't imagine how that would feel. I also believe "what goes around comes around" so maybe he is receiving this pain because of the pain he has inflicted on others throughout his life.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
The manager was in a tricky situation. But I would not want to be responsible for taking care of a patient with parents like that. Ruth should have never agreed to stand in that room alone with the baby after being taken off the case. It is all about protecting yourself from a lawsuit in this day and age.
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
I thought the differences between them being so complete opposite was a kind of stereotypical thing for the author to do. Most people are somewhere along the line and not on polar ends of a spectrum. Lots of siblings though end up being the direct opposite of each other (the pretty one, the smart one) though.
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
I wasn't sure if I wanted to read and discuss the book, JUST for that reason. BUT books are supposed to be entertainment too, so I am trying to read it for entertainment value.
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?I went back and forth about whether I wanted to read the book. The topic seemed timely and she writes about controversy well so I thought I would give it a go.
Yes, it is a good book. I am surprised that I can identify with Turk as much as I am. I wasn't expecting that.
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
I have read House Rules and The Storyteller. I thought both we excellent, so I knew this would be told well as well.
8. The title of the book comes from the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote that Ruth’s mother mentions on p. 173: "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way." What does this quote mean to you? Do you see any examples of small great things done by the characters in the novel?(Question from LitLovers)
I think about the quote in terms of my job, 2nd grade teacher and empowering kids to do great things.
I thought it was meaningful when Ruth's friend, Christina came to see her after she realized the gravity of the situaiton.
9. Have your opinions of any of the 3 main characters (Ruth, Turk or Kennedy) changed so far? Is there one you can relate to more than the others?
I feel bad for Ruth. I am more mad about the hospital throwing her to the wolves than with the parents for making the accusations. The parents behavior can be understoood because they lost their child and are not in the health care field. The hospital is not treating Ruth as it should. She has dedicated her life to that hospital and they are just looking at the bottom line of dollar signs. I think they would have done that to any nurse, not just an African American one. For all her colleagues to not fight for her is disappointing. They could be next.
10. Any predictions for the end of the novel?
I was thinking about that and I have NO IDEA how this one is going to end. I am worried that it is going to have an upsetting end!
Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?
I really like Ruth. She sounds like someone who I'd like to hang out with. I have a total bias to nurses though, I think they are unsung heroes of the medical world.
Kennedy sounds a bit full of herself to me at the moment
Turk got my backhairs standing on end, but I do feel some empathy towards his experience of losing his child.
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
How can I not, he lost a child. I can't understand his deep rooted extremism, but I felt so sad for him and his wife losing their child.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
It feels like total bum covering to me. I understand why she felt she had to, she didn't expect it to end the way it did. By posting it as POC not to touch (even if that's only Ruth) makes it sound like she was trying to make it not about Ruth.
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
I can feel the conflict between being honest to your history and wanting the best for your child. What a rough choice when choosing the best for your child means that they are a minority, how sad!
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
I'm in Australia so I can only talk about this from what has been broadcast here. However, I feel it is very appropriate. To me the USA looks in a racial turmoil right now and people of colour are standing up for who they are, for their rights and it's making a lot of people very uncomfortable.
Discussion Questions16 December
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?
I decided to read it, because I've really enjoyed Picoult books before and I have been wanting to read this once I read the blurb on GR. I was so excited when I received a ARC, but have been eyeing a hard copy since it came out in the shops (just couldn't justify the $33)
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
Yes, I've read many. Not sure what my favourite is.
8. The title of the book comes from the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote that Ruth’s mother mentions on p. 173: "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way." What does this quote mean to you? Do you see any examples of small great things done by the characters in the novel?(Question from LitLovers)
To me this quote means leaving the world better than how you found it one little act at a time.
The small thing that stands out in my mind is when Ruth takes Kennedy out shopping to have her give a living experience of what it means to be a POC in a shop. It was eye opening. When Kennedy then says "I get it", Ruth says "you've only just started to get what it's like". Really amazing
9. Have your opinions of any of the 3 main characters (Ruth, Turk or Kennedy) changed so far? Is there one you can relate to more than the others?
I'm starting to like Kennedy more. My opinions of the others haven't changed much yet.
10. Any predictions for the end of the novel?
I think Ruth will get off...oh I really hope she does! I can't believe I have almost finished this book! I will be sad to see it finish. I'm glad to see that this is #1, hopefully meaning that there are more to follow
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?I first heard of it on NYTimes Books, I remember it was one of the top-10 best-selling titles that week. Then I read a review by Roxane Gray and I became really interested to read it. I am very new to the subject so sometimes I have difficulty in understanding some of the concepts in the book but I learn more as I read on. So far the book's meeting my expectations and I am really enjoying it.
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favorites?
I read two other books by Picoult before: Keeping Faith and Songs of the Humpback Whale, both of which I read when I was in middle school. But so far this book is my favorite. I don't know if it's because I am more mature now I can look more into the story and think more about it. I love how Picoult constructed her story and the novel is very well-researched!
8. The title of the book comes from the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote that Ruth’s mother mentions on p. 173: "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way." What does this quote mean to you? Do you see any examples of small great things done by the characters in the novel?(Question from LitLovers)
I love this quote. Not everyone can do something big and make huge influences but yeah, we can 'do small things in a great way', even if they're just making small changes.
Ruth always does small great things. From doing her job as a nurse to how she tries to educate or tell people about how POC are mistreated. Ruth is a professional nurse, she does not do things in a clinical way, rather she knows how to build a relationship with her patients, how to calm them down, how to make them feel less anxious. Every little thing she does actually means so much to her patients.
I also remember when Kennedy's daughter Violet made an innocent statement that black people were slaves, her parents started to panic and were really afraid that Ruth would get offended. Instead of getting angry or avoiding the subject, Ruth explained the whole thing to Violet. Although Violet may not understand at this little age, I am very impressed by Ruth's attempt. When Micah said it was a very good Black History lesson, what Ruth said really touches me.
9. Have your opinions of any of the 3 main characters (Ruth, Turk or Kennedy) changed so far? Is there one you can relate to more than the others?
I still feel the same about Turk. I like Ruth more and more. And then there's Kennedy. I love her. She is very self-reflective and intelligent. She tries her very best to put herself in Ruth's shoes, her sincerity has gained trust from Ruth.
10. Any predictions for the end of the novel?
I heard that there is a twist to the ending so I am not very sure yet. But I think Ruth will get off. What I can't wait to know is how will things turn out: what is Turk planning to do and how will Kennedy strike back.
Mod
December 19
Questions adapated from those provided by publisher
11. Kennedy explains the difference between "equity" and "equality" on p. 427. Do you think Ruth gets equity from the trial?
12. Was your perspective on racism or privilege changed by reading this book? Is there anything you now see differently?
13. Did the ending of surprise you? If so, why?
14. Did the Author’s Note change your reading experience at all?
15. Would you recommend this book? Why?
Moderators of NBRC wrote: "Discussion Questions
16 December
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
8. The title o..."
6) I decided to read this book as part of the Goodreads book club. I have read a few books through this group and really enjoyed the way that the questions are posed as there are specific days to complete chapters of the book. I read the synopsis and thought that it sounded quite interesting. I was also looking for something a bit ‘different’ to read as I normally stick to thrillers, horrors and fantasies.
---
7) This is the first book I’ve read by Picoult, and had never heard of her before now. I’m finding her writing style to be really enjoyable, intelligent and easy to follow so I suspect I’ll pick up another book in the future.
---
8) The quote ‘If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way” I think is a particularly powerful one, (but then this clearly wasn’t the only powerful and intelligent King said!). It demonstrates that a single person cannot change the world, and the power comes from changes within civilisation and communities. One person can have a great idea, but it will take more than this one small person to make the change. Every person has the power, no matter how insignificant they think they are within this world to small great things. These small things are unique to each of us and can only be considered great to ourselves.
In the context of the book, I think every character in their own way has achieved small things in their life in a great way. Ruth has achieved great things with her career, her son, her family. The Bauer’s have created a life, the other White Supremacists have defended a belief so strongly that they are willing to come out of the shadows and endanger themselves, Kennedy has chosen a career she believes will make the most difference and not just one that has a higher profile and more money.
To me, it’s all what YOU consider to be great, not anyone else.
---
9) I initially wasn’t able to build up much of an opinion of Kennedy within the first round of questions as there had only been a short chapter introducing her. I feel as though we know her a lot better now and understand her growing relationship with Ruth, and with her own family. Initially I had considered that Kennedy had taken on Ruth’s case to satisfy her own moral guilt with her and her family's history with black people, but the further the case develops I think Kennedy is experiencing and learning things that she didn’t expect to. I can’t say that my opinions of the other two characters has changed much. I still have a lot of respect for Ruth, and believe she is doing wonders to raise her Son and Turk is still the same, passionate about something I don’t agree with but absolutely adores his wife.
---
10) I would predict that the book will end with Ruth not being charged. I can’t imagine something as drastic as that happening!
16 December
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
8. The title o..."
6) I decided to read this book as part of the Goodreads book club. I have read a few books through this group and really enjoyed the way that the questions are posed as there are specific days to complete chapters of the book. I read the synopsis and thought that it sounded quite interesting. I was also looking for something a bit ‘different’ to read as I normally stick to thrillers, horrors and fantasies.
---
7) This is the first book I’ve read by Picoult, and had never heard of her before now. I’m finding her writing style to be really enjoyable, intelligent and easy to follow so I suspect I’ll pick up another book in the future.
---
8) The quote ‘If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way” I think is a particularly powerful one, (but then this clearly wasn’t the only powerful and intelligent King said!). It demonstrates that a single person cannot change the world, and the power comes from changes within civilisation and communities. One person can have a great idea, but it will take more than this one small person to make the change. Every person has the power, no matter how insignificant they think they are within this world to small great things. These small things are unique to each of us and can only be considered great to ourselves.
In the context of the book, I think every character in their own way has achieved small things in their life in a great way. Ruth has achieved great things with her career, her son, her family. The Bauer’s have created a life, the other White Supremacists have defended a belief so strongly that they are willing to come out of the shadows and endanger themselves, Kennedy has chosen a career she believes will make the most difference and not just one that has a higher profile and more money.
To me, it’s all what YOU consider to be great, not anyone else.
---
9) I initially wasn’t able to build up much of an opinion of Kennedy within the first round of questions as there had only been a short chapter introducing her. I feel as though we know her a lot better now and understand her growing relationship with Ruth, and with her own family. Initially I had considered that Kennedy had taken on Ruth’s case to satisfy her own moral guilt with her and her family's history with black people, but the further the case develops I think Kennedy is experiencing and learning things that she didn’t expect to. I can’t say that my opinions of the other two characters has changed much. I still have a lot of respect for Ruth, and believe she is doing wonders to raise her Son and Turk is still the same, passionate about something I don’t agree with but absolutely adores his wife.
---
10) I would predict that the book will end with Ruth not being charged. I can’t imagine something as drastic as that happening!
11. Kennedy explains the difference between "equity" and "equality" on p. 427. Do you think Ruth gets equity from the trial?I have a major issue with justice being agreed by a jury of peers. I don't feel that there is a case of equality or equity in any case where there are lay people who decide on legal issues. People are biased and ideally the law is 'blind'.
I am not sure if Ruth got equity in this case. Race plays a major role here so there is no way it can be a case of equity.
12. Was your perspective on racism or privilege changed by reading this book? Is there anything you now see differently?
It has started to open my eyes more to my white privilege and things that I do to ensure I don't come across as racist, might actually mean that I do the opposite.
13. Did the ending of surprise you? If so, why?
not so much. I knew there was going to be a large difference with Turk at the end. I was sad to hear about Britt, happy about the new child for Turk. I wasn't so surprised as there are several extremists who turn and go on speaking turns.
14. Did the Author’s Note change your reading experience at all?
I didn't read this until the end, so no it didn't change it.
15. Would you recommend this book? Why?
I really liked this book. I would recommend this book, because I want to hear what People of Colour think of this book. The book was written by a white person, again telling POC what they experience or think...
11. Kennedy explains the difference between "equity" and "equality" on p. 427. Do you think Ruth gets equity from the trial?I agree with Chava saying that because of the type of case it is, there can be no equity. But I was happy that it turned out the way it did for Ruth. She was able to say what she needed to say and also be acquitted.
12. Was your perspective on racism or privilege changed by reading this book? Is there anything you now see differently?
I think the part about the difference between racism and prejudice was something I want to think more about. I think with the current state of our country there are a lot more people who are willing to have an open conversation about it, that is for sure.
13. Did the ending of surprise you? If so, why?
Yes, I was surprised at the twist with Britt at the end of the trial. I was surprised about what ultimately happened to her. I think though for Turk to change he needed to be free of her because she wasn't going to change. I thought the storyline she used to create Turk's change was a good one.
I liked that we never really knew if Ruth knew it was Turk at the end. I like some unknown in my endings and don't always like everything wrapped up so perfectly.
14. Did the Author’s Note change your reading experience at all?
No, not really. I did find the process she went though to create the book interesting.
15. Would you recommend this book? Why?
Yes, I would like to hear what other people think about it. I thought it was a very human story with all the feeling it provoked. It was also tense and fast paced for me.
Discussion Questions16 December
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?
Honestly, I thought the book was about something else, and I can't remember anymore, but I didn't think it was about racial injustice. Even if I did know that, it wouldn't stop me from reading it. This book has turned out to be almost inspirational more and more. It's sad and lovely at the same time.
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
This is my first, and I think I will be seeking others of hers out.
8. The title of the book comes from the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote that Ruth’s mother mentions on p. 173: "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way." What does this quote mean to you? Do you see any examples of small great things done by the characters in the novel?(Question from LitLovers)
This one is a bit of a challenge when I try to say what it means to me. The best I can think of is to do your best to do and be things that are bigger than yourself. Try to make at least some change in the world that is good. Some examples I found in the book were first, when Kennedy decided to after all take on Ruth's case, no matter how hard it was going to be. She's also been moving mountains, I think, for Ruth's case by how she's been working. Sure, it's her job, but she is going above and beyond in my book. No pun intended. Edison didn't seem to make a huge difference in the world to many maybe, I don't know, in the story, but when he got his mom out of prison, I was so happy, and proud of him. I think that was a small great thing. Wallace Mercy may have more on his agenda when he offers help for Ruth, like something to have to show in the spotlight again, but when he gave Ruth all that money from the many people that were trying to help out without secret agendas, I was blown away. I still don't like him in the story, don't know if he really is on TV, but I think what he did was great for her and Edison.
9. Have your opinions of any of the 3 main characters (Ruth, Turk or Kennedy) changed so far? Is there one you can relate to more than the others?
My opinions of Turk haven't really changed. Ruth seems to be coming out of a shell she's been hiding in for almost her whole life. I completely had the wrong idea about Kennedy. She is nice, but also no nonsense. She's going to get the trial done with justice, even if justice isn't really going to be in the trial, racially. She tries her best at everything she can. Even though it's fiction, I feel bad that I misjudged her. Yet, there wasn't much to go on in the first section of reading.
10. Any predictions for the end of the novel?
I'm so used to happy endings being in most books, not all, that I'm hoping this will be one of them. I'm hoping that Ruth will not be charged guilty, and she won't have to worry about McDonald's anymore. Maybe she'll be able to go back to nursing if that's her hope. I don't know if that will happen, but that's what I want to happen.
Discussion QuestionsDecember 19
Questions adapated from those provided by publisher
11. Kennedy explains the difference between "equity" and "equality" on p. 427. Do you think Ruth gets equity from the trial?
I had to look this one up even asking my mom what equity was before I started this section, because I knew that this question wasn't about how much of a mortgage has been paid off. From what I've learned, and what I read in the book, I don't think Ruth got Equity until the end of the trial. I'm not sure she even got equality 100% of the time in the rest of the trial.
12. Was your perspective on racism or privilege changed by reading this book? Is there anything you now see differently?
I think it was. I see places where I've missed opportunities to stand up for those who aren't given a voice. Racism runs through family members as well as friends, and I can speak up when a joke is made against a person of color, or when a family member assumes that the reason that something bad happened to me because they were black. I have a voice, and I have learned how important it is to use it.
13. Did the ending of surprise you? If so, why?
It seemed like there were so many surprise endings, but they all came together to make sense of what was being told. I think I was more surprised about Turk's change of opinion in his life than the end of the trial. I've been biased about him the whole time because I knew someone just like him. What I didn't see is that he had the power after all that hate to put down this load of hate he was carrying, and start a new life, or at least transform it into a better one, where he was making a difference.
14. Did the Author’s Note change your reading experience at all?
I stated before that I feel like I have a voice that I need to use now. I think the Author's Note really helps that after reading the book. After Jodi has come out and said to let our voices and actions be heard.
15. Would you recommend this book? Why?
I would recommend this book. First, to the obvious people in my life that I share great books with. Then, I will also recommend it to those I know who will listen to a recommendation from me who need to read this book. I have friends and family members who I think would benefit from this book just like I did. Some maybe more than others. I would hope to hear less racist jokes after they read it, for example. Stop jumping to conclusions. Those are some reasons why I would recommend this book.
Started a bit late, but here goes. Questions for Stage 1: Early labor and Stage 1: active labor
12 and 13 Dec.
1) We get to know our main players in these chapters: Ruth (the African-American nurse), Turk (the white supremacist father of Davis) and Kennedy (the white public defender). What are your initial impressions of them?
I like Ruth. I think she is trying to do the best she can in all aspects of her life and tries to keep a positive outlook. I also like Kennedy. She seems a good person. I can't stand Turk or his wife. I understand that they have been through their share of disappointment and trauma, which helped to mold them into who they are, but I am so intolerant of people that think they are better than. It's just disgusting.
2) Despite his views, do you have empathy or compassion for Turk? Discuss why or why not.
I feel bad that they lost their baby, but otherwise no. Again, I understand that he has had loss and disappointment and everyone deals with that differently, but I just can't bring myself to feel bad for him.
3) Discuss your view on Ruth's nurse manager's stance to grant the parents' wish for Ruth not to be allowed to touch their child Davis.
I understand that they were going to put up a big stink, but she handled it poorly. She should have stood her ground a bit. I think she should have called in some higher ups, but also maybe removed Ruth for her own safety and well-being. By at least attempting to compromise where Ruth wouldn't be assigned to them, but wasn't banned from treatment, she could have prevented a bigger issue. Plus, the sticky note was just awful. She should have had a conversation with Ruth about the parents wishes. I think it was just handled poorly in general.
4) Discuss your view and/or understanding of the sibling relationship between Ruth and Adisa.
Sibling relationships are often complicated. They seem to care about each other, but their overarching views of life are so completely different. It makes it difficult for them to understand each other, yet they still spend time together and both seem to want to maintain the relationship.
5) What are your views on this book coming out at a time when in America race and minority rights are topics of heated discussion and demonstrations following President-elect Trump's election victory?
I think that is just pure coincidence. Jodi Picoult could not have possibly known what was going to happen around the election in the US when she was writing this book. It is certainly timely though.
Discussion Questions16 December
6. Why did you decide to read this book? Is it meeting your expectations so far?
I have read other books by Jodi Picoult and thought they were well written, so I figured I'd give this one a chance. I read the summary and thought it would be an interesting story.
7. Have you read any Picoult books before? If so, any favourites?
Hmmm...I really liked Nineteen Minutes. Also, The Storyteller was good and My Sister's Keeper, so much better than the movie.
8. The title of the book comes from the Martin Luther King, Jr. quote that Ruth’s mother mentions on p. 173: "If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way." What does this quote mean to you? Do you see any examples of small great things done by the characters in the novel?(Question from LitLovers)
I like the idea of doing small things in a great way. I feel like that makes "doing great things" more accessible to the average person. Everything you do can be done in a great way. I see the characters doing this in many ways, for example the way that Ruth raises her son and takes care of her patients, both moms and babies.
9. Have your opinions of any of the 3 main characters (Ruth, Turk or Kennedy) changed so far? Is there one you can relate to more than the others?
No. I still like Ruth & Kennedy and can't stand Turk.
10. Any predictions for the end of the novel?
Not really. I'm hoping it works out well for Ruth though.
Discussion QuestionsDecember 19
Questions adapated from those provided by publisher
11. Kennedy explains the difference between "equity" and "equality" on p. 427. Do you think Ruth gets equity from the trial?
I'm not sure about the trial being equitable. She got what she deserved from it. And what she needed, so I suppose so. I have this pic that I love that I think explains equity vs equality very well. The picture gets the point across perfectly, IMO. I'll attach it below.
12. Was your perspective on racism or privilege changed by reading this book? Is there anything you now see differently?
No, not really.
13. Did the ending of surprise you? If so, why?
Some of Turk's last chapter did. I think the fact that he was getting a divorce when his wife killed herself was surprising. It seemed that he was in it with her no matter what. Though, she seemed more hard core, I guess, not sure that's exactly how to put it, regarding the supremacy. I was surprised that Turk would bring his daughter to Ruth or that she would accept them as patients with everything she went through. There were actually a few things that seemed a bit out of character to me in the book.
14. Did the Author’s Note change your reading experience at all?
I was surprised that she met Skinheads that were transformed in real life to base Turk off of. I felt that his change was a bit unrealistic, but knowing where she was coming from helped. I feel like maybe we just missed part of his story where the change took place.
15. Would you recommend this book? Why?
I absolutely would. I thought it was a great story.
Read this already but could I comment on it?
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Nineteen Minutes (other topics)The Storyteller (other topics)
My Sister's Keeper (other topics)
Keeping Faith (other topics)
Songs of the Humpback Whale (other topics)
More...
This topic is to discuss Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult . Be prepared for spoilers!
Synopsis:
Ruth Jefferson is a labor and delivery nurse at a Connecticut hospital with more than twenty years' experience. During her shift, Ruth begins a routine checkup on a newborn, only to be told a few minutes later that she's been reassigned to another patient. The parents are white supremacists and don't want Ruth, who is African American, to touch their child. The hospital complies with their request, but the next day, the baby goes into cardiac distress while Ruth is alone in the nursery. Does she obey orders or does she intervene?
Ruth hesitates before performing CPR and, as a result, is charged with a serious crime. Kennedy McQuarrie, a white public defender, takes her case but gives unexpected advice: Kennedy insists that mentioning race in the courtroom is not a winning strategy. Conflicted by Kennedy's counsel, Ruth tries to keep life as normal as possible for her family—especially her teenage son—as the case becomes a media sensation. As the trial moves forward, Ruth and Kennedy must gain each other's trust, and come to see that what they've been taught their whole lives about others—and themselves—might be wrong.
With incredible empathy, intelligence, and candor, Jodi Picoult tackles race, privilege, prejudice, justice, and compassion—and doesn't offer easy answers. Small Great Things is a remarkable achievement from a writer at the top of her game