1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Which aspects of Bel Canto, like style, characters, or plot, most compelled you to continue reading? 
• What was your reaction to the way the story unfolded? What surprised you about the novel? Were there any sections that you felt detracted from the overall meaning of the story?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• Bel Canto features a large cast of characters. Which character did you most connect with, and why?
• One of the themes that Bel Canto touches on is the effects of trauma. How did the novel’s exploration of this theme resonate with you? Did you feel it was handled realistically?
• Discuss the novel’s exploration of religion. What questions did it raise while you were reading? Did any of the novel’s conclusions surprise you or cause a change in your perspective?
• Consider the network of relationships that evolve over the course of the novel. Did any of them surprise you? 
• Discuss the novel’s exploration of the concept of community. How does it reflect your understanding of community? Does it complicate your thoughts on the topic?

3. Societal and Cultural

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