Only the Beautiful

1. General Impressions 

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How familiar were you with eugenics before reading the novel? In what societal contexts did you know of eugenics occurring? Were you aware that these types of practices and mindsets existed in 20th-century America?
• Amaryllis is taken from her mother at a very young age. Have you encountered other stories that revolve around the separation of a mother and child? What circumstances tend to lead to these separations? Were you expecting a reunion at the end of the novel?
• The novel begins in 1938 and spans more than a decade, ending when Amaryllis and Helen finally reunite with Rosie. Have you read other works of historical fiction set during this era? To what extent would you characterize the book as a World War II novel, and would you recommend it to someone who enjoys reading fiction about war?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

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

• Helen leads a bold and unconventional life: She leaves her family in America to work as a nanny in Europe and experience new cultures and ways of living. Have you ever lived abroad? Why or why not? What factors do you think might compel someone to start a life in a new country?
• Rosie feels isolated because she is made to feel ashamed of her experiences with synesthesia. In your experience, what factors tend to make someone feel ashamed of being “different” rather than feeling proud of being unique? How can communities ensure that people (especially children and young people) grow up feeling proud and secure in their identities?
• The novel explores nontraditional family structures and ways of nurturing: Helen does not have biological children, but she is a loving presence to children when she works as a nanny, and she eventually adopts her niece. What adults were important and formative to your own growth? How much do you think blood ties matter in parent-child relationships?
• Rosie’s life is transformed when she meets a doctor (whom she later marries) who researches synesthesia and does not believe anything is “wrong” with her. Has your perspective on yourself ever changed due to an interaction with someone else?

3. Societal and Cultural Context 

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

• Rosie’s rights are violated both because she has synesthesia and because she is young and unmarried when she becomes a mother. What qualities typically lead to someone being considered a “good” or “fit” parent? Are these assumptions necessarily accurate?
• How does the novel depict disability in the mid-20th century? Do you believe that societies have progressed in how they treat individuals who live with disabilities? What challenges do people with disabilities still face?

4. Literary Analysis 

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

• Given the novel’s title, who or what is portrayed as beautiful within the book? How does the novel challenge typical definitions of who or what is beautiful and valuable?
• Analyze the symbolism of plants and flowers within the text: For instance, Rosie and Amaryllis both have flower names, and a vineyard is a key setting. How does this symbolism reflect themes of resilience and personal growth?
• The novel is split into two parts: The first focuses on Rosie and her experiences, while the second focuses on Helen. What was the impact of this structure on your reading experience? How does it contribute to the novel’s overall meaning?
• Why does Rosie begin using a new name (Anne)? How does the new name symbolize her desire to adopt a new identity?

5. Creative Engagement 

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

• Imagine a prequel that focuses on Helen’s life before she went to Europe. What formative experiences might have shaped her character? How did she become independent and self-reliant? Was there ever a time when she might have longed for romantic relationships and biological children?
• Helen finds purpose and meaning in activism and advocacy. What causes are currently important to you? Research or brainstorm one action you can take to advance this cause.

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