How to Age Disgracefully

1. General Impressions 

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How did you feel about the comic tone of the novel? Do you think you would have a different response to the narrative if Pooley had taken a more serious approach?
• What were your favorite moments from the book? Was there any storyline or character you liked less?
• How does this book compare to other novels you’ve read with older characters or an ensemble cast? Does the book share any similarities with Pooley’s other novels, The Authenticity Project and Iona Iverson’s Rules for Commuting?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• What did you think of Daphne’s declaration that she intends to age “disgracefully?” What do you think she means by this?
• Many of the characters come to terms with something that happened in the past, but Art truly hurt the people he loved. Do you think Kerry should forgive Art? Who or why not?
• What do you think of the friendships that develop between the seniors and the nursery school children? Did you find this realistic? What do you think Pooley is trying to say about cross-generational friendships? Do you have any cross-generational friendships in your own life?
• Along with repairing the past, the novel also looks at justice.