In-Person Book Club: Demon Copperhead

Meeting 4: Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver

Discussion questions:
1. Apparently Charles Dixens "spoke" to Barbara Kingsolver personally\, and gave her permission to re-write his 1850 novel\, David Copperfield. Did anyone read Dixens' book\, and if so\, how do the stories and characters compare? Which book did you prefer?

2. Demon Copperhead wasn't the "fluff" we were expecting (lol); the book perhaps not an enjoyable read\, but masterfully written with powerful themes and rich characters. What character(s) resonated with you the most\, and why?

3. Written precisely at ground zero of the opioid epidemic\, the book frames addiction as a result of systemic corporate greed\, and medical misdirection. Did Kingsolver change any preconceived notions you may have had\, or enhance your knowing of extreme addiction?

4. We all know what it feels like to be looked down upon; using Demon's voice\, did Kingsolver change any preconceived notions you may have had\, or enhance your knowing of extreme poverty?

5. Demon experienced many types of family throughout the book. Who do you think was most crucial to Demon's survival and wellbeing\, and why? What do you ultimately define as a true family?

6. Many adults witness Demon slipping through the cracks\, yet few step in to effectively alleviate his suffering. Institutions (fostercare\, school\, healthcare)\, often proved actively harmful\, leaving Demon\, and others\, to rely on self and community. Who do you think is most accountable for the suffering these characters endured? How do you determine when it's appropriate to intervene in someone's personal and/or family crisis?

7. Demon and Tommy used art as a means to cope; others used drugs\, sports\, escape\, care-taking\, etc.\, as coping mechanisms. Do you believe art was an effective coping strategy for Demon and enhanced his resilience? When life hands you stress and/or overwhelming grief\, what is your 'go to' anchor or outlet?

8. "First I got myself born"\, begins this tale. The book is beautifully written\, filled with many great lines\, did any one line\, or lines\, stand out for you in particular\, and why?

9. I always rate a book or movie by how many times a passage or scene returns to my mind days\, weeks\, or even years later. Did you like the book\, and why or why not? Is there any particular part that has randomly returned to your thoughts\, after the finishing the book?

10. Kingsolver leaves readers to reflect on what healing looks like for someone with Demon’s background. Does ending up okay mean total restoration\, or is it simply learning to carry the scars? What does true resilience look like to you?