Faster Discussion Questions for First Half

[Wesley]

Hi all,

I hope y'all are enjoying Faster so far. Let's start some discussions on the first half of the book. The author Neal Bascomb has kindly provided a set of questions that will help get the ball rolling!

These are in no certain order, so feel free to take on any of the questions that interest you. Just make sure to reference the question number with your comments. Now on to book talk!

FASTER 1ST HALF QUESTIONS

1. How aware were you of the popularity of Grand Prix racing in Europe before opening up the pages of FASTER? Did it surprise you to learn how closely the sport of racing evolved relative to the invention of the automobile? How do you feel like it compares to such events as the Indianapolis 500 or NASCAR? Do you feel like sport is as nationalistic today?

2. What was it about the automobile—and Grand Prix racing—that so drew the attention of Hitler? How significant a role do you feel like it played in the early days of his leadership of Germany? Were you aware of how closely intertwined he was with the leadership of Mercedes as well as Ferdinand Porsche?

3. In histories of the Third Reich, we always read about the SS, Gestapo, and even Hitler Youth. But rarely does the NSKK appear. Had you ever heard of the Huhnlein and his paramilitary organization? Were you shocked to learn what a critical player it was in developing a motorized infantry?

4. To be a race car driver in the early 1930s was a glamorous, yet very deadly profession. What spurred Rene Dreyfus and Rudi Caracciola to continue to drive, even after harrowing accidents that almost killed them? How do you think they overcame their fears? Were you surprised to learn how superstitious most of the drivers were, believing in talismans and fortunetellers?

5. Had you ever heard the name Lucy Schell? Did you know much about early speedqueens like her? Was she the Danica Patrick of her day? What is important about learning of her life, much as we have of the achievements of NASA mathematician Katherine Johnson (of Hidden Figures fame)?