Book Club: Small Admissions

Who loves book cookies?

 Small Admissions Discussion Questions

1.     Does Angela take the role of being Kate’s big sister too seriously, or is it appropriate for her to manage Kate’s life so closely? Is there a point when she goes too far? (What makes a good sister?)

2.     Is Kate being self-indulgent to fall apart so completely after her break-up with Robert? Is it understandable that she becomes dysfunctional?

3.     Why does Chloe feel so guilty about Kate? Do you think she is to blame for Kate’s tough times? Or is Chloe simply predisposed to take responsibility for the problems of others?

4.     Is Victoria a bad friend/person or is she simply trying to make a good life for herself? Is it her fault if people are hurt along the way? Are she and Robert “a good fit”?

5.     I learned a lot when I worked in an admissions department at a NYC private school! How does Kate’s understanding of acceptance and rejection change as she becomes increasingly competent in her job in admissions? What do you think she learns?

Here’s a Wall Street Journal interview in which I discuss some of my experiences.

6.     What issues do you see arising with tuition for private schools reaching between $35,000 - $55,000 per year? What may some parents expect in return for such a huge sum of money? What message does it send to kids?

Here’s a fascinating article that will surely generate discussion!

7.     How would you describe the parenting style of Kate’s parents? Are they adequately supportive? Or too aloof?

8.     How would you describe Henry as a boss? Would you want to work for him?

9.     Is Maureen simply comic relief, or does she provide Kate (and the reader) with something more important? What do you think Kate can learn from Maureen?

10.  Is Jonathan is a good match for Kate? Or is Angela right that Kate needs to slow things down?! Is Kate simply being impulsive? Why or why not?

11.  What do you think of the title Small Admissions? What small admissions are made throughout the book?

12.  Nora Ephron said in her graduation speech at Wellesley College:

Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim . . .

It will be a little messy, but embrace the mess.

It will be complicated, but rejoice in the complications.

It will not be anything like what you think it will be like,

but surprises are good for you.

Is this good advice to give to a new graduate? Or should people in their twenties seek a calm, less “messy” life? Are surprises good for us? What does this make you think about choices you’ve made in life?