Good Material

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book

• This is Alderton’s first novel from the perspective of a man. Did you find the male voice authentic?
• The novel doesn’t give Jen’s full perspective until the end. Did her section change or confirm your opinion about her?
• Alderton is well-known for writing an “agony aunt” column for the Times, particularly about relationships. To what extent does Good Material offer relationship advice?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• Who did you relate to more, Andy or Jen? Have you ever reacted to a breakup in a similar way to either of them?
• Andy, Jen, and their friends often reflect on the values and behavior of people from different generations, particularly “boomers,” “millennials,” and “Gen Z.” Where do you see these generational divides in your own life?
• The text explores the challenges of navigating early adulthood. How much did it reflect your own experience of early adulthood (whether current or in the past)?
• Andy tries many different coping mechanisms in the text to different degrees of success. What coping mechanisms work for you?
• Jen’s friendship group is extremely supportive during the breakup, while Andy’s group attempts to help in misguided and half-hearted ways.