10 Thought-Provoking Small Great Things Book Club Discussion Questions to Dive into Diverse Themes
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult is a gripping novel that challenges readers to confront their biases and question their beliefs. This book tells the story of Ruth Jefferson, a black labor and delivery nurse who is accused of causing the death of a white supremacist couple's newborn baby. As the case unfolds, readers are forced to examine their own prejudices and consider the ways in which systemic racism impacts our society. If you're looking for a thought-provoking book that will spark lively discussions, Small Great Things is an excellent choice for your next book club meeting.
Here are some questions to get your book club conversation started:
1. What were your initial thoughts and feelings about Ruth and Turk? Did they change throughout the course of the book?
2. How did you feel about Kennedy's role in the story? Did you agree with the choices she made?
3. What did you think about the way Picoult handled the topic of race in this book? Do you think she was successful in addressing such a complex issue?
4. In what ways did the character of Edison impact the story? What do you think Picoult was trying to say through his character?
5. How did the courtroom scenes make you feel? Were there any moments that stood out to you as particularly powerful or impactful?
6. How did you feel about the ending of the book? Did it satisfy you or leave you wanting more?
7. What did you think about the use of multiple perspectives in this book? Did it enhance the story or detract from it?
8. How did reading Small Great Things impact your own views on race and racism?
9. Were there any parts of the book that you found difficult to read or emotionally challenging? Why?
10. Would you recommend this book to others? Why or why not?
Overall, Small Great Things is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into issues of race, prejudice, and justice. By exploring the perspectives of different characters and exposing the ways in which racism operates in our society, Jodi Picoult challenges readers to examine their own beliefs and biases. If you're looking for a book that will inspire meaningful conversations and leave a lasting impact, Small Great Things is the perfect choice for your next book club meeting.
Introduction
Small Great Things is a novel written by Jodi Picoult that tells a story of racism, prejudice, and injustice. The book has received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful message and compelling characters. It is a perfect book club read and can lead to interesting discussions. Here are some discussion questions that can help facilitate a productive conversation about the book.
Characters
Who was your favorite character in the book? Why?
The book features three main characters - Ruth, Turk, and Kennedy. Each of them has their own unique story and perspective on the events that unfold in the book. Who did you relate to the most? Did any of the characters surprise you with their actions or opinions?
Did you sympathize with any of the characters?
The book portrays the struggles of different characters as they navigate the complex issues of race and prejudice. Did you feel empathy towards any of the characters? Did any of the characters' viewpoints challenge your own beliefs about race and privilege?
Themes
What do you think the author's message was?
The book addresses several themes such as racism, prejudice, and privilege. What do you think the author was trying to convey through the characters and their stories? Was it effective in making you reflect on your own biases and prejudices?
How does the book explore the theme of power?
The book highlights the power dynamics at play in society and how it affects individuals. How do the characters use their power to influence others? How is power used to maintain the status quo and perpetuate inequality?
Plot
Did you find the plot engaging?
The book is a page-turner that keeps the reader invested in the story until the very end. Did you find the plot engaging? Were there any moments that stood out to you or that you found particularly powerful?
What did you think of the ending?
The book's ending has been a subject of debate among readers. What did you think of the resolution? Did it leave you satisfied or wanting more?
Social Issues
How does the book address issues of racism and prejudice?
The book explores the impact of racial prejudice on individuals and society as a whole. How does the author challenge our assumptions about race and privilege? What does the book reveal about the insidious nature of racism and how it affects people's lives?
How does the book address the issue of white privilege?
The book exposes the privilege that comes with being white and how it can create blind spots in our understanding of racial issues. How does the author address this issue through the characters and their experiences?
Conclusion
Small Great Things is a thought-provoking book that tackles important social issues. By discussing the book's themes, characters, and plot, book clubs can engage in meaningful conversations about race and prejudice. The book encourages readers to reflect on their own biases and to work towards creating a more equitable world for all.
Small Great Things is a powerful novel by Jodi Picoult that explores issues of race, privilege, power, and justice. The story follows Ruth, a Black nurse who is accused of causing the death of a White newborn, and the trial that ensues. With multiple narrators, including Ruth, the baby's father Turk, and Ruth's White lawyer Kennedy, the novel offers a complex and nuanced exploration of these themes. In this article, we will delve into the central themes of the book and discuss how they are addressed through the characters, plot, and narration.
Central Themes of Small Great Things
One of the most prominent themes in Small Great Things is racism and privilege. The novel challenges the idea of colorblindness and highlights how even well-meaning individuals can perpetuate systemic racism. Another theme that runs throughout the book is power, particularly the power dynamics between different races and social classes. The novel also explores the concept of justice, specifically how it is not always black and white and can be influenced by factors such as race, class, and privilege. Finally, the book deals with the complexities of interracial relationships, both romantic and professional.Racism and Privilege
The novel's exploration of racism and privilege is perhaps its most significant theme. Through the characters of Ruth, Turk, and Kennedy, the reader is exposed to various perspectives on these issues. Ruth is a Black nurse who has worked hard to overcome the systemic barriers that have been placed in her way. She is proud of her accomplishments but is constantly reminded of her race by the microaggressions she faces in her daily life. Turk, on the other hand, is a White supremacist who believes that his race is superior and that all people of color are inferior. He is angry at the world and feels that he has been wronged by society. Finally, Kennedy is a White lawyer who believes that she is not racist and is horrified by the racism she sees around her. She is forced to confront her own privilege and biases as she works on Ruth's case.Through these characters, Picoult challenges the idea of colorblindness and highlights how even well-meaning individuals can perpetuate systemic racism. For example, Kennedy believes that she is not racist but realizes that she has never truly understood what it means to be Black in America. She realizes that her privilege has allowed her to be blind to the struggles of people of color and that she needs to actively work to break down the barriers that exist.Power Dynamics
Another significant theme in Small Great Things is power dynamics, particularly the power dynamics between different races and social classes. The novel shows how people in positions of power can abuse that power and how those without power are often at a disadvantage. For example, when Ruth is accused of causing the baby's death, she is immediately put at a disadvantage because she is a Black woman accused of harming a White baby. The hospital administration, the police, and the legal system all work against her, and she is powerless to stop it. Similarly, Turk uses his White supremacist beliefs to intimidate those around him and gain power over them.The novel also explores the concept of power from a different perspective. Ruth, despite being in a lower socioeconomic class than Kennedy, has power as a nurse. She has the ability to make decisions about patient care and has a great deal of responsibility. However, when she is accused of wrongdoing, that power is taken away from her, and she becomes powerless.Characters
The characters in Small Great Things are complex and multi-dimensional, and their journeys throughout the novel are integral to the themes of the book. Ruth is the protagonist of the story, and the reader is immediately drawn to her strength and resilience. She has had to overcome significant barriers to get where she is, and she is proud of her accomplishments. However, when she is accused of wrongdoing, she is forced to confront the systemic racism that has been present throughout her life.Turk, the baby's father, is perhaps the most challenging character in the novel. He is a White supremacist who believes that his race is superior to all others. Although he is a reprehensible character, Picoult does an excellent job of showing how he got to be that way. Turk grew up in poverty and was constantly told that he was not good enough because of his race. He has been failed by society and has turned to hate as a coping mechanism.Finally, Kennedy is the White lawyer who takes on Ruth's case. At the beginning of the novel, she believes that she is not racist and is horrified by the racism she sees around her. However, as she becomes more involved with Ruth's case, she realizes that she has never truly understood what it means to be Black in America. She is forced to confront her own privilege and biases as she works on the case.Multiple Narrators
One of the unique aspects of Small Great Things is its use of multiple narrators. The novel is told from the perspectives of Ruth, Turk, and Kennedy, which allows the reader to see the story from different angles. This approach is particularly effective because it allows the reader to see how each character's experiences and perspectives shape their actions and beliefs.The use of multiple narrators also adds depth and complexity to the storytelling. For example, when Ruth is accused of causing the baby's death, the reader is able to see the event from her perspective, Turk's perspective, and Kennedy's perspective. This allows the reader to understand how the same event can be interpreted in vastly different ways depending on one's experiences and beliefs.Justice
The concept of justice is another central theme in Small Great Things. The novel explores how justice is not always black and white and can be influenced by factors such as race, class, and privilege. For example, Ruth is accused of causing the baby's death, but the evidence against her is circumstantial at best. However, because she is Black and the baby was White, she is immediately assumed to be guilty. Similarly, when Turk is on trial for his role in the events that led to the baby's death, he is given a more lenient sentence than Ruth even though he played a more significant role.The novel also explores the idea of restorative justice, which seeks to repair the harm caused by crime rather than simply punishing the offender. This approach is exemplified by Kennedy's decision to work with Ruth after the trial to promote racial justice and understanding.The Medical World
The medical world plays a significant role in the story, particularly in Ruth's experiences as a Black nurse. The novel highlights the systemic racism that exists within the medical profession and how it can have dire consequences for patients of color. For example, when Ruth is working with the baby who later dies, she notices signs of distress but is ignored by the White doctors. Her concerns are dismissed because of her race and position as a nurse, and this leads to tragic consequences.Interracial Relationships
Small Great Things also addresses the complexities of interracial relationships, both romantic and professional. The novel shows how these relationships can be challenging because of the systemic racism that exists in society. For example, Kennedy struggles with how to relate to Ruth because of their different backgrounds. She realizes that she has never truly understood what it means to be Black in America and that her privilege has made it difficult for her to relate to Ruth's experiences.However, the novel also shows how these relationships can be transformative. Kennedy's relationship with Ruth allows her to confront her own biases and understand the systemic barriers that exist for people of color. Similarly, Ruth's relationship with Kennedy allows her to see that not all White people are racist and that there is hope for change.Key Moments of Tension
There are several key moments of tension in Small Great Things that drive the plot forward and highlight the novel's central themes. One of the most significant is when Ruth is accused of causing the baby's death. This event sets off a chain reaction of events that exposes the racism and privilege that exist in society. Another moment of tension is when Turk takes matters into his own hands and seeks revenge against Ruth. This event shows how hate can lead to violence and how the cycle of racism and prejudice can be difficult to break.Current Events and Social Issues
Small Great Things is a novel that is particularly relevant to current events and social issues. The book was written in 2016, but its themes and messages are still incredibly important today. The Black Lives Matter movement, which gained momentum in 2020 after the murder of George Floyd, highlights the systemic racism that exists in society and the need for change. Small Great Things speaks directly to these issues and shows how even well-meaning individuals can perpetuate racism through their actions and beliefs.In conclusion, Small Great Things is a powerful novel that explores issues of race, privilege, power, and justice. Through its complex characters, multiple narrators, and key moments of tension, the book offers a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of these themes. In today's world, where issues of racial justice and equality are at the forefront of public discourse, Small Great Things is a must-read for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of these issues.Point of View about Small Great Things Book Club Questions
Pros of Small Great Things Book Club Questions
1. Thought-provoking: The book club questions for Small Great Things are designed to encourage discussion and critical thinking among readers. The questions cover a wide range of topics, from racism and prejudice to identity and privilege.
2. Engaging: The book club questions are well-crafted and engaging, making them easy to understand and answer. This encourages readers to participate in discussions and share their thoughts and opinions.
3. Reflective: The book club questions encourage readers to reflect on their own beliefs and biases. This can be a transformative experience, as readers learn to see the world through different perspectives and challenge their own assumptions.
Cons of Small Great Things Book Club Questions
1. Overwhelming: The book club questions for Small Great Things can be overwhelming for some readers, especially those who are new to the subject of race and racism. The questions cover a lot of ground and may require readers to do additional research or reading.
2. Repetitive: Some readers may find the book club questions repetitive, as many of them focus on similar themes and topics. This can make discussions feel monotonous or unproductive.
3. Triggering: The book club questions for Small Great Things can be triggering for some readers, especially those who have experienced racism or discrimination firsthand. It’s important for book club members to be mindful of each other’s feelings and experiences during discussions.
Table Comparison or Information about Small Great Things Book Club Questions
| Category | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Thought-provoking | Encourages discussion and critical thinking among readers | Can be overwhelming for some readers, especially those who are new to the subject of race and racism |
| Engaging | Well-crafted and engaging questions make it easy for readers to participate in discussions | Some readers may find the questions repetitive |
| Reflective | Encourages readers to reflect on their own beliefs and biases | Can be triggering for some readers, especially those who have experienced racism or discrimination firsthand |
In conclusion, the book club questions for Small Great Things are an excellent tool for encouraging discussion and reflection among readers. While they may be overwhelming or triggering for some, they offer a valuable opportunity to examine our own biases and assumptions about race and identity.
Closing Message for Small Great Things Book Club Questions
Thank you for taking the time to read and explore the Small Great Things book club questions with us. We hope that this discussion has provided you with valuable insights and allowed you to delve deeper into the themes and issues presented in the novel.
As we wrap up this discussion, it is important to reflect on the importance of this book in today’s world. Small Great Things tackles the issue of racism head-on and challenges readers to confront their own biases and prejudices. By reading and discussing this book, we have taken the first step towards becoming more aware of our own biases and how they impact our interactions with others.
Throughout our discussion, we have explored various themes and topics including privilege, power dynamics, and social justice. We have analyzed the characters’ motivations and actions and discussed their impact on the plot and overall message of the novel.
We have also looked at how the author, Jodi Picoult, uses different literary techniques to convey her message. From the use of multiple narrators to the inclusion of real-life historical events, we have examined how these techniques add depth and complexity to the story.
One of the most powerful aspects of this book is the way it forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world around them. By facing these uncomfortable truths head-on, we can begin to work towards creating a more just and equitable society for all.
As we conclude this book club discussion, we encourage you to continue exploring these themes and ideas on your own. Consider how you can use your own experiences and perspectives to create positive change in your community.
Additionally, we would like to remind you that this discussion is not the end of the conversation. We encourage you to continue sharing your thoughts and insights with others and to seek out new perspectives and ideas.
Finally, we would like to thank Jodi Picoult for writing this powerful and thought-provoking novel. Small Great Things has sparked important conversations about race, privilege, and power dynamics, and we hope that it will continue to do so for years to come.
Thank you again for joining us in this discussion. We look forward to exploring more books and themes with you in the future.
People Also Ask About Small Great Things Book Club Questions
1. What is Small Great Things about?
Small Great Things is a novel by Jodi Picoult that tells the story of a Black nurse named Ruth Jefferson who is accused of causing the death of a White newborn baby in the hospital where she works.
2. What are some themes in Small Great Things?
Some themes explored in Small Great Things include race, prejudice, privilege, justice, and empathy.
3. What are some discussion questions for Small Great Things book club?
Here are some discussion questions for Small Great Things book club:
- How did you feel about the way the story was narrated?
- What did you think about the characters' motivations and actions?
- How does the novel address the issue of racism and prejudice?
- What role do you think privilege plays in the story?
- What did you think about the ending of the novel?
4. How does Small Great Things compare to other books by Jodi Picoult?
Small Great Things is similar to other books by Jodi Picoult in its exploration of controversial social issues and its complex characters. However, it differs from her other books in its focus on race relations and the experiences of Black characters.
5. What are some other books about racism and prejudice that are similar to Small Great Things?
Some other books about racism and prejudice that are similar to Small Great Things include:
- The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
- Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
- White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo