This reading group guide for Renegade Grief includes discussion questions, and ideas for enhancing your book club. The suggested questions are intended to help your reading group find new and interesting angles and topics for your discussion. We hope that these ideas will enrich your conversation and increase your enjoyment of the book. Topics and Questions for Discussion: 1. How does Judith Viorst's portrayal of widowhood challenge common stereotypes about aging and loss? 2. In what ways does Viorst use humor to cope with the difficulties of losing her husband and adjusting to life in a retirement community? 3. How does her connection to her former home influence her sense of identity and belonging after the move? 4. What insights does Viorst provide about the practical aspects of preparing for widowhood, and how can these lessons be applied to our own lives? 5.
How does Viorst depict the societal perceptions of aging, and what implications does this have for how older adults are treated? 6. In what ways do the stories and experiences of other widows and widowers enrich Viorst's narrative and offer various perspectives on grief? 7. How does the concept of community play a role in Viorst's recovery and adaptation to her new life? 8. How does Viorst's exploration of mental decline and cognitive changes resonate with or challenge your own views on aging? 9. What roles do apologies and expressions of love serve in maintaining relationships during a long marriage, according to Viorst? 10. How does Viorst address the tension between independence and the need for help as one ages, and what lessons can be drawn from her experiences? 11. What are some of the ways Viorst suggests older adults can continue to find joy and purpose after significant losses, and how realistic are these suggestions? 12. How does Viorst's reflection on her relationship with her husband underscore the importance of companionship in making the best of the later years of life? ENHANCE YOUR BOOK CLUB The Shifting Landscape of Identity: How does Viorst's exploration of her changing identity as a widow speak to broader societal expectations and pressures placed on women, especially as they age? Consider gender roles and ageism.
How does the book challenge or reinforce these norms? The Power and Limitations of Connection: Viorst frequently discusses the importance of community and relationships. What are the challenges of maintaining meaningful connections in later life, as portrayed in the book? How might technology and social media both help and hinder these connections? Finding Meaning in the Face of Mortality: Viorst grapples with her own mortality and the meaning of life. How does her perspective on legacy and purpose evolve throughout the book? Does her approach to these existential questions offer comfort or provocation? The Role of Humor in Coping with Loss: How does Viorst use humor to navigate difficult emotions, and what does this suggest about the power of laughter in the face of adversity?.