For May's Book Club, we read Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys. Anthony, Claire, JT, Madison, Maida, and Reagan were present. Here's some of what we talked about, with guidance from the author's book website.
As the novel
opens, Lina explains that though the signs were in place, she has little
understanding that her parents had planned to attempt to escape Lithuania. What
can be inferred about her understanding of the political climate in her
country?
Lina’s
mother remains calm throughout the roundup of her family; how does her family
benefit from this?
When Jonas
observes his mother smashing her beloved china and crystal before they depart
their home, he asks her why she is destroying these items. She replies,
“Because I love them so much.” (p. 18) Do you consider this an act of
rebellion? In your opinion, is her reaction appropriate? In what ways is she
trying to control the situation?
As Lina’s
family is first placed in the truck to take them to the trains, they meet the
bald man who proclaims loudly, “We’re all going to die. We will surely die.”
(p. 22) How does his presence affect the other prisoners? Consider and explain
how Lina and her mother react to his rants. In what ways is Elena (Lina’s
mother) sympathetic to his condition?
Using examples, what are some of the specific ways Lina’s mother chooses to
fight back against the NKVD?
Being held prisoner on the train brings out
the best and worst in some of the inhabitants. Consider and discuss some of the
ways that individuals extend their assistance and support. How do their choices
differ from those who are most unkind to others?
How does the
author use the embedded flashbacks to help readers understand why Lina’s family
has been rounded up for punishment? Do you agree with the family’s choices? Why
or why not?
Though
readers mostly learn about Kostas, Lina’s father, through her shared memories,
a great deal can be understood about his character. In your opinion, what kind
of man is he? Is he a good father? Use textual evidence to make your case.
Upon
arriving at the country train depot, the NKVD officers begin sorting the
prisoners, and Lina asks, “Have you ever wondered what a human life is worth?
That morning, my brother’s was worth a pocket watch.” (p. 35). How does this
realization change Lina? In what ways does Lina better understand her mother’s
actions and motivations?
After Jonas
is selected to be separated from his mother and sister, their mother is able to
save his life by using her language skills and quick wit. What are some of the
specific things she does to secure his safety?
Discuss the
character traits that allow Lina, Jonas, and Andrius to ultimately persevere.
How are these characters similar to each other? In what ways are they
different? Which character are you most like?
Throughout
the novel, Lina uses her passion for her art to remain connected to her family and
the outside world. What are some of the specific ways she does this?
What role
does Andrius play in the story? In what ways is he a catalyst for the choices
made by Lina and Jonas?
Consider the
consequences of not signing the documents which charge the prisoners of
counterrevolutionary activities against the Soviet Union. Does Lina’s family
make the right decision by refusing to “confess” these transgressions? Why or
why not?
Though Lina
believes that Andrius and his mother are supplying information to the NKVD
officers in exchange for food and shelter, she eventually learns that the
arrangement comes at a great cost to his family. How does this knowledge of the
lengths his mother goes to in order to keep him safe ultimately affect him? How
does Lina’s understanding of these sacrifices reshape her perception of him?
His mother?
Throughout
the novel, the bald man is cast as an unsympathetic character. How do his
random acts of kindness help portray him as more than one dimensional? Cite
specific instances from the story where you find evidence of this. Why might
the author choose to include these examples?
Using the
phrase, “This is a story about…”supply five words to describe Between Shades of
Gray. Explain your choices.
Four 5s for this book! They "loved it"!
