- What does art mean to Becky? Why do you think she is willing to risk so much for it?
- What is the significance of Becky’s father not being able to see what she does in the first painting that she acquires? Does this mark a turning point in their relationship?
- Why do you think Becky chose not to leave Pierson and go to college after Hank’s death? How might her trajectory have been different if she had? Would she still have created her Activity?
- How is Becky’s friendship with Ingrid different than her friendships within the art world? Why do you think she’s able to feel close to Ingrid in a way that she isn’t with anyone else? Why is it so important for her to have the constant of Ingrid’s friendship throughout the book?
- Becky wonders what it’s like “to have just your one regular life and to be content” and feels that this desire sets her apart from others. Do you think she’s truly unique to feel this way? Are there any other characters who Becky views as being content, but are shown to have their own hidden desires?
- What role does social class play in the book, both in Becky’s interactions in the art world and in her relationships with Ingrid and the other Pierson citizens?
- Why do you think the author chose to set the book primarily in the 1980s and 1990s? Do you think Becky could have gotten away with the same scam today?
- What is the meaning of Tracy Moncton’s statement at the trial? Why is it so significant to Becky?
- What do you think the unopened letter from Becky’s old math teacher said? Why doesn’t Becky want to read it, in that moment?
- Were you satisfied with the ending, or were you hoping for a different outcome? Do you think Becky’s punishment was just?
