Questions for Discussion

  1. In what ways are many of the characters (Charlie, Nick, Chase, Sierra, Ethan) “acting” in their real lives? What are they trying to project about themselves and how does it differ from how they feel on the inside? Can you think of times in your own life when you’ve tried to appear a certain way to hide your true emotions?
  2. Which characters are reinventing themselves and embarking on a “second act”? How do they feel about their journeys? How successful are they? What does
    The Summer Set reveal about failure, second chances and reinvention? Have you ever made a major life change? How did it feel?
  3. Charlie talks about “returning to her roots” as a metaphor for returning to theater work. Matteo mentions water as a symbol of life and rebirth. What role does the natural world play in the novel? How are certain characters reinvigorated by their landscape and inspired by the world around them? (Or in Jasmine’s case, perhaps just the opposite!)
  4. Charlie and Nick have so much history—good and bad. Why do you think they still have sparks when they meet again? Do you think it ever works to get back with an ex? Can people change?
  5. What does The Summer Set have to say about the passage of time? What role does time play in the relationships in the book?
  6. How do the three Shakespeare plays staged at the theater—Romeo and Juliet, A Midsummer Night’s Dream and The Tempest—reflect what’s going on offstage at the theater?
  7. Charlie had an unconventional childhood. How does her upbringing shape her interactions with Danica’s young son, Gianni? How does Charlie’s friendship with Gianni help her understand her relationship with her own mother?
  8. How do the characters’ opinions about fame differ? For characters not as interested in fame, what motivates them instead? What is the book’s message about fame and stardom?
  9. In what ways do Ethan and Sierra remind Charlie and Nick of their younger selves? Though Charlie and Nick should be the mentors, how do Ethan and Sierra perhaps help them? Do you have a mentor? How have they helped you navigate different times in your life?
  10. Do you think Charlie and Nick stay together after this summer? Why or why not? If so, what do you think their first creative project together might be?

Keep reading for an excerpt from Campaign Widows by Aimee Agresti.