The Reading List

Explore the psychology of Mukesh finding comfort in reading the novels his wife read. What do the novels reveal to Mukesh about Naina? Use examples from the text.

Compare and contrast the remedies for loneliness that the novel tests, such as reading versus the company of others. Using secondary characters, such as Zac and Nilakshi, argue the benefits of either course.

At different points, characters mention movies and their impact on their emotional lives. Compare films to what the novel argues about the community that reading creates. Does the text suggest that movies can offer the same? Do you agree? Why or why not?

The relationship between Mukesh and Aleisha is unconventional. What does each offer the other than they cannot find in friends their own age? What else does the novel say about intergenerational relationships, familial or otherwise?

Research any of the novels on Naina’s reading list. How do the characters, symbols, and themes of that novel illuminate the characters, symbols, and themes of The Reading List? Is The Reading List a stand-alone, or is it necessary to read Naina’s books to get the full picture? Explain your answer.

Aleisha bonds with her mother by reading Naina’s novels to her. What impact do the books have on Leilah, particularly in the wake of Aidan’s death? How would Leilah’s experience with the books have differed if she’d read them by herself?

Many people in Aleisha and Mukesh’s neighborhood feel the Harrow Road library will close down soon. What would the community lose without the Harrow Road Library? What does this say about the necessity of libraries in general? Consider the open house, the monthly book club, and the bulletin board by the front desk.

Adams argues that novels help people develop empathy through bonding with fictional characters. Compare Aleisha’s and Mukesh’s experiences bonding with one or more of the characters from the books on Naina’s list. How did these bonds influence their real-life relationships?