Practical Magic

Alice HoffmanFiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1995

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Download PDF

Summary

Background

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Character Analysis

Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Important Quotes

Essay Topics

Book Club Questions

Tools

Beta

Discussion Questions

Book Club Questions

General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Were you familiar with Practical Magic before reading the novel? How did it compare with your expectations?

2. Which Owens woman did you identify with the most, and why?

3. Compare this novel to Hoffman’s later installments in the franchise, such as The Rules of Magic. How did she expand this story world through deeper exploration?

Personal Reflection and Connection

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

1. The Owens family is victim to intense social and cultural stigma. Have you ever experienced this type of prejudice? How did you manage it?

2. Why do you think Gillian invested so much of herself in an abusive relationship? If she had asked you for advice, what would you have told her?

3. The novel presents romantic love as something that is ultimately very toxic and damaging. Do you agree with this assessment? Why or why not?

4. Kylie undergoes a coming-of-age journey of dramatic change. Which of your own coming-of-age experiences do you see reflected in this character?

Societal and Cultural Context

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. How does the New England setting shape the way this story develops? What is the cultural significance of this part of the world?

2. Practical Magic is an overtly female-led book. How does the novel engage with and subvert traditional gender stereotypes and dynamics?

3. How does this novel critique the beauty industry and the negative attitudes toward women aging?

Literary Analysis

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Compare and contrast the three sets of siblings in the novel. What elements do they have in common, and how is each set unique?

2. Which Owens woman undergoes the most dramatic change? Explore the tools the author uses to shape their character arc.

3. The plant that Gillian uses as a sedative is called belladonna, which means “beautiful woman”. What is the symbolic significance of this plant in the novel?

4. Discuss the role of Gary in the novel. Why did the author choose to bring him in so late into the story? How does the novel change once he becomes part of it?

Creative Engagement

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Watch the film adaptation of this book, then discuss the main differences. Why do you think the production made such substantial changes to the story? Do these benefit the story or detract from it?

2. Choose a song that best represents each central character, then discuss your choices. Which genre of music do you think would appeal the most to each character? Why do the lyrics in your chosen song reflect their stories and/or personalities?

Need more inspiration for your next meeting? Browse all of our Book Club Resources.