Suggested Questions for Book Club Discussion
To what extent is Rita shaped by living in the Southwest? How might this story have differed if it had occurred in another region of the United States?
Although he’s the antagonist in the story, Joe isn’t quite a villain. Which of his characteristics did you find admirable and why?
Some would say if Chloe had really loved Joe, she would have forgiven his transgression. Why do you think she ended the relationship?
Did Miguel merely respond to Rita as a man still mourning the loss of his wife and son, or did he have a true connection with her?
How did being raised by a single mother impact Parker? What kind of artist might he have been if he hadn’t grown up next to a junkyard?
What role did an impoverished childhood play in who Leroy Sena became as an adult?
Gilbert Sena has some personality quirks we’ve all met in various government officials. Discuss what irritates you about him. Does he have any redeeming traits?
Santa Fe itself is a character in this novel. What perception did you have of the town?
How has land development impacted your community?