Getting started on a good book

[Lisa]

It is always difficult to decide on which book to read. There are so many!! If you are going to commit to the time to read a book though, you want to have it be a valuable way to spend your time. THis is why community reading is great. Lynne and I talk about books all of the time, and evaluate the plot, characters and writing styles. You will like our discussions and learn how to find a good book. THis one is chosen for it’s unique topic, characters and style. Read along with us and join us in the discussions, there is only one way to learn and it is by just diving in.

[Lynne]

I have to say, my impression from the title doesn’t match up with the reviews I’ve read. Ive heard it’s very good. I’m excited to start it.

[Lisa]

I started the book. It’s an easy read and a surprising character. Is anyone else reading yet? I do t want to give anything away..,

[Lynne]

I didn’t start yet! I’ll look for it at the library and download it.

[Julie]

I started. Im on chapter 28. Very dysfunctional family obviously... i don't understand why Korede is enabling her sister to the extent she is. I am guessing some of my questions will get answered by the end? How far is everyone else ?

[Lisa]

I am only on chapter 8. I stopped reading because i was waiting for everyone to catch up. Now i need to catch up to you Julie! The thing about Korede is how she is so permissive with her sister but so harsh with those at work! What do you think of that?

[Lynne]

I like how clean she is. Exceptional cleanliness whether she cleans up at her sterile work, or the blood from her sister's murders!

[Lynne]

Here's some discussion questions for chapters 1-17 (through "Roses")

On page 60, Korede says, “Mother still talks about Ayoola as if she were a child, rather than a woman who rarely heard the word ‘no.’” From this, and other instances in the book so far, how would you describe Korede’s relationship with her mother?

[Lynne]

Throughout the beginning of this book, Korede often refers to Ayoola in a sense of entitlement. For instance, when referring to Ayoola introducing herself, Korede internally narrates it as, “She puts out her hand, the way a queen would for her subjects” (Braithwaite, 54). Do you think Korede resents Ayoola for her seemingly effortless/careless way of life? Is she jealous?

[Lynne]

Lynne wrote: "Throughout the beginning of this book, Korede often refers to Ayoola in a sense of entitlement. For instance, when referring to Ayoola introducing herself, Korede internally narrates it as, “She pu..."

From the time she was born Ayoola was the beautiful sister. Her beauty is something that allows her to get away with anything including murder.

[Lynne]

Lynne wrote: "Throughout the beginning of this book, Korede often refers to Ayoola in a sense of entitlement. For instance, when referring to Ayoola introducing herself, Korede internally narrates it as, “She pu..."

Im not sure if jealous is the word for it, but she accepts that Ayoola's lot in life is to be the pretty, dependent one and that her lot in life it to make that possible for her. Her parents made Ayoola the protected one and expect Korede to do the same.

[Julie]

Lynne wrote: "Throughout the beginning of this book, Korede often refers to Ayoola in a sense of entitlement. For instance, when referring to Ayoola introducing herself, Korede internally narrates it as, “She pu..."

Absolutely! yes she is jealous. Her sister kills and Korede cleans up after and Korede is the one who can't sleep and feels guilt. Ayoola feels nothing. Isn't that the definition of a sociopath. Do either realize what they are doing and or why?

[Julie]

Okay, I am so amazed at how you guys discuss this. ( a book) I have never been a part of a book club so this is all new to me.
I have not been a part of how to pull things out and discuss so I don't know what to say... especially since I finished the book this morning. I have a lot of feelings about it all but don't want to spoil it for you guys.

[Lynne]

I finished it already. I went back to look for themes and such