February Book Club
This Is How It Always Is by Laurie Frankel
Here are some questions to consider while you read This Is How It Always Is:
- What is the significance of the book's title? The phrase “This is how it always is” is first spoken by Penn during a difficult parenting conversation with Rosie, but do you think the sentiment can be applied to other elements of the story?
- What did you think of the parallel between Penn’s bedtime fairy tale and Poppy’s experience?
- When Rosie first takes Poppy on playdates with other girls, the moms begin telling her how brave she is. “Rosie appreciated the support but wasn’t sure parenting ever really qualified as brave — or maybe it always did — because it’s not like you had a choice.” How are each of the characters brave? (bookcompanion.com)
- Do you think our expectations of people, such as Rosie and Penn’s expectations of Claude, get in the way of us actually listening to them? Knowing them? (bookcompanion.com)
*Note*- This book has received criticism for it’s “fairy-tale ending,” as many trans and queer folks do not receive the support and acceptance Poppy receives from their family and community by the end. Consider this as you read, and remind yourself that no one person or character’s experience is universal.
If you want to take it a step further and really engage with the content, use these questions as journal prompts! You can also just write about whatever comments or thoughts you have as you read :)
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At this link, you can see questions and reviews for the book, and engage in community discussion. If you want to track your reading progress this year, make a Goodreads account and start by adding this book to your list!
Find a library near you and check out this book to get started. Happy reading!
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