Discussion Guide

Discussion Guide: The Perishing by Natashia Deón

A photo of three books taken by barnes and noble the bookstore

BOOK CLUBS, etc

Thank you so much to readers who have selected The Perishing for your upcoming book club!  

Thank you for reading! We hope you enjoyed The Perishing by Natashia Deón and found it thought-provoking. Below are some topics to consider and questions to discuss.

  1. Much of the novel is set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, California. How does this setting influence the narrative? How do you think the story would have been different if it was set in a different city or state?
  2. In Chapter 2, Sarah says, “So how I appeared, skin color and all, was merely a fact to me, not the basis for what should be expected of my character.” Do you think Sarah being reborn with no established understanding of racism benefited her or hinderer her?
  3. During her trial, Sarah says, “I only want what’s fair and not to be forced into surrender.” In what ways does Sarah rebel against surrendering throughout the book?
  4. Why do you think Lou is drawn to Esther when she is introduced in the narrative?
  5. Lou often has dreams of her past lives and the people she once knew. What significance do Lou’s dreams have? Do dreams have a significance in your life?
  6. Do you think there is a reason the thirty-six were chosen to be continuously reborn? If so, why?
  7. Aaron tells Lou that he knew her in a past life and warns her that she may be in danger. Why do you think Lou reacts the way she does?
  8. In Chapter 12, Lou sees Jefferson in the boxing gym and has vivid visions of him as her lover in one of her past lives. Do you think she was meant to find him? Do you believe in the concept of a soulmate?
  9. Why do you think Lou considers leaving The Times? How do Mr. Morris and Charlotta differ in their roles as bosses?
  10. The construction of Route 66 is a heavily debated topic in the novel. Why do you think the construction of the road was so important to Los Angeles residents?
  11. How did you feel when Victor O’Malley’s plan to gain immortality was revealed?
  12. If you learned that you were bound to be reborn after death, how would you choose to life your life?
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