Go as a River: A Novel

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• What were your overall impressions of Go as a River? Discuss what you liked most and least about the book.
• Compare this novel to others in the same genre or by the same author, particularly novels relating to displacement, racism, and/or familial relationships. Did the novel remind you of others you’ve read?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Reflect on any part of Go as a River that evoked a strong emotional response (such as the town’s unjust treatment of Wil as an Indigenous man and his eventual gory murder, Victoria’s giving up their baby, or her unexpected reunion years later with their son, Lukas). Discuss why it was so impactful.
• One of the novel’s themes concerns the importance of place and the effects of displacement. How does this concept relate to your personal views or experiences? Have you ever experienced displacement?
• Explore connections between your life and the experiences of the novel’s characters. Which character resonated most with you and why?
• Seth betrays Victoria’s trust, and she never forgives him. Reflect on how realistic her reaction is given the significance of Seth’s actions.