The Spectacular

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Does the novel ultimately suggest that it’s better to make sacrifices for others, or to stand up for what you want?
• Do you consider the novel as having a happy ending for Marion and Peter? Consider both timelines as well as their dual professional ambitions in your answer.

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• Do you agree with Marion’s choice to give up her aspirations to care for Simon? Why or why not?
• Peter thinks he must hurry to make a difference, as his time to do so is limited. Do you agree or disagree?
• Have you ever given something up for someone else’s benefit? If so, what? How do you feel about that choice?
• Marion finds kinship with Bunny and relies on the bonds of sisterhood with Judy. What women in your life bring you solace and happiness?
• Do you consider yourself ambitious? How does your relationship to ambition affect your life?

3. Societal and Cultural Context

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

• The 1950s in the United States are often remembered as a time of abundance. How does Marion’s job as a Rockette, which involves looking a specific way no matter what is happening in her life, stand in as a metaphor for our historical image of the 1950s versus the reality of political tumult during that time?
• How does the novel pathologize or offer an understanding viewpoint of mental illness?

4. Literary Analysis

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

• Marion resists some expectations of women in the 1950s by pursuing a career. What socially expected roles does she fulfill?
• How does Peter’s position on psychiatry offer a commentary on modern medicine as it is understood in the 1950s? How does it offer a commentary on psychiatric medicine as understood today?
• How does the history of WWII affect the novel?
• Who does the novel argue is best poised to seek justice in a community? What qualities does that person have? What does the community they serve overlook about them?
• How did the flashback structure affect your expectations of how the novel would unfold?

5. Creative Engagement

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

• What do you think would have happened if Marion didn’t give up dancing to care for Simon?
• Imagine this novel as a thriller set in the modern day, instead of in the 1950s. How would the events change or stay the same?

Need more inspiration for your next meeting? Browse all of our Book Club Resources.