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1. What do you think the book’s title is referring to? How does it relate to the book’s theme?
2. What was the author’s purpose in writing this book? What ideas was she trying to get across?
3. What was unique about the setting of the book and how did it enhance or take away from the story? How did the setting impact the story?
4. What did you already know about the Southern Appalachians? What did you learn? Did you have any misperceptions?
5. Did the characters seem believable to you? Did they remind you of anyone you know—even if they’re from a different part of the country?
6. Abit Bradshaw has come into his own through music and woodworking. What skills in your life helped you feel creative and productive?
7. Why was Della Kincaid so determined to respond to the whistleblower’s mailings? What in her personality and professional life motivated her?
8. What are the major conflicts in the story?
9. What feelings did this book evoke for you?
10. At the end of Chapter 26, Della Kincaid says:
“When it finally sank in that Nigel was safe, I sat on the bench and cried in front of God and everyone. My customers were well acquainted with life’s troubles, so anyone passing by took it in stride. Two women gently laid their hands on my downturned head before walking on.”
Have you ever been comforted by strangers? Helped by people you didn’t know?
11. Were you surprised by any cultural differences you read about? Have you been to any of the places mentioned in the story?
12. In Chapter 53, Abit Bradshaw says: “I walked to the store (Coburn’s), opened the front door, and for the first time ever, felt I might not be welcome.
“Okay if I come in?”
“Of course it is, Abit.” Della frowned at me. “Why are you asking permission? Don’t tell me you’re sorry about speaking up. That negates what you accomplished.”
How do you feel after you’ve been angry at someone or spoken out about what you believe in?
13. Can you relate to the characters’ predicaments? Have you experienced anything similar?
14. What did you think when Della Kincaid was attracted to FBI Agent Stoltz? Have you ever had feelings for someone you knew could never advance? What were those reasons?
15. How do characters change, grow, or evolve throughout the course of the story? What events trigger these changes?
16. Are there any characters you’d like to deliver a message to? If so, who? What would you say?