Rich and Pretty (Aman)

Discussion Questions
We'll add the publisher's questions if and when they're available; in the meantime use these LitLovers talking points to start a discussion for Rich and Pretty...then take off on your own:

1. Describe the two young woman: what are their personalities, desires, and motivation in life? How do their backgrounds shape their decisions? Do you admire one character more than the other?

2. Talk about the pressures the friendship faces as the two mature. What do you see as the fault lines in their relationship?

3. (Follow-up to Question #2) Sarah thinks to herself:

Things change, in life—of course they do. People grow up, become interested in new things, new people. Our way of being in the world is probably a lot less fixed than most people think. But Lauren is a part of her world, and she's a part of Lauren's.

On the other hand, Lauren wonders if her friendship with Sarah has survived because of habit. What is your assessment?

4. Do you see yourself in either of the characters? Have you ever had a similar relationship in your own life—a long friendship that has felt the strains of different backgrounds or different life choices?

6. What role does socio-economic status play in this book?

7. Talk about the title of the book, "Rich and Pretty." What is its thematic significance? (Notice, too, the blurred cover image.) Lauren's prettiness is never described while Sarah's unattractive features are spelled out. Why do you think that is?

8. As the story ends, what do you think the future holds for the two women? Will their friendship survive?

9. The author is male. How well do you think he captures the female voice? In an interview, Nina Wertheimer of NPR said, "you have a nearly flawless ear for the way women talk. And you are a guy." Do you agree...or not.

(Questions by LitLovers. Please feel free to use them, online or off, with attribution. Thanks.)

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