WellRead’s September 2022 selection was Marshmallow by Victoria Hannan. In the words of the author: “But as much as Marshmallow is about the hardships of grief, of loss, of trauma, I think it’s hopeful too; full of reminders that the world can be beautiful if you just remember to take a look sometimes.”
Use these discussion questions to engage with the book further, whether in a book club with friends, or just on your own as you digest the story.
Reading questions for Marshmallow by Victoria Hannan:
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Despite being an emotional read, we couldn't put Marshmallow down. Did you speed through it or take things slowly?
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The novel examines the various ways grief impacts people. Discuss the experiences of the five main characters and the differences and similarities of their grieving process?
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How do you think people find meaning in their lives after experiencing great loss?
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In her letter to subscribers, Hannan writes that the Heaney poem, included in the epigraph, is a reminder that the world can be beautiful if you just remember to take a look sometimes. How does this sentiment show up in the novel?
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Was there a character who you felt more connected to than the others? Why do you think this was the case?
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Towards the end of the book, Al visits his father and thinks: "He was glad he was there but hated being there at the same time. He hated that so often the right thing to do was the hardest, the most impossible". What is happening here for Al? Did you relate to these paradoxical feelings?
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What does the novel have to say about friendship?
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Hannan has been applauded for her capacity to illuminate emotional truths through her writing. What did you learn by reading this book? What gentle wisdom did it offer you?
Please note, these questions were written and distributed in September, 2022.