Happiness Falls

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Reflect on the title of the book. What does it signify? Do you think it aptly captures or indicates the themes explored in the novel?
• Adam as a character never appears in the main narrative, which opens following his disappearance. How do you think this influences your perception of the character?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• How do you personally define intelligence? Is this a trait you admire or value? Do you perceive individuals as capable of different kinds of intelligence? What are some behaviors or expressions you typically associate with intelligence? Did this book challenge or contradict any of these notions?
• Mia and Hannah are both familiar with feeling like an outsider. Have you ever felt this way? How do you think the experience impacts a person’s relationship to their identity/identities?
• The novel explores how “verbal padding” can be both positive and negative. What examples from your own life can you draw on to make the case for each?
• Mia is a character fascinated by the multiverse and alternative history. Reflect on some of the crossroads you have experienced in your own life, big and small.