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BOOK GROUP GUIDE
Ash is a novel that is rewarding on many levels. It takes places in a part of the world many English-speaking readers have never traveled to, and it tells a story of great psychological depth, as the main character of Caitlin struggles in her role of a person caught between two cultures and between her past and her present.
The following questions are designed to prompt discussion in book groups and to suggest the many different ways that Holly Thompson's novel can be appreciated. (Book clubs and book groups can often obtain discounts on quantity purchases; contact your local bookseller for more information.)
How does Caitlin's relationship with her mother, father, sister, and Ma Ruth affect how Caitlin feels about her past? Would you describe Caitlin's reaction to her past as excessive?
How are the ash/volcano/swimming/water metaphors used throughout the novel?
Caitlin is balancing between two cultures. Is there any moment in the book when she's in perfect equilibrium between them?
Identify some moments of intercultural clash or friction between characters in the book. How is the friction handled by the characters? Now imagine these same characters in some future situation experiencing some sort of intercultural friction. What is the nature of the friction? What do the characters do? What do they say? What do they not say? Why?
How does Naomi and Caitlin's relationship change throughout the book? Is Naomi really Mie's spiritual heir/reincarnation?
What did you learn about Japan from the author's description of the locations in the novel and the way people interact? How does the atmosphere and evidence of daily life of an American in Japan compare to your expectations of life there prior to reading the book?
What are the key factors that brought about the change in Caitlin's relationship with her past?
Do you have a childhood memory--good or bad--that is as vivid as Caitlin's in Kyoto? Does it still influence your life today?
What do you think will happen to Caitlin and Hiroshi's relationship after the novel ends?
Writing Ash • Book group guide • Media reviews
