Book Club Discussion Questions
“Won’t You” by Kristin Orloff
‘Wine and Cheese’ Discussion Questions
- 1. Which character in the story did you find most complex, and what made them intriguing?
- Do you think Finn is alive at the end of the story? Why or why not?
- Themes often reveal deeper truths in a story. What themes did you identify in this story, and how do they resonate with you?
- Is there a limit to what parents should be expected to do for their children? Where should the line be drawn?
- How did each of these characters’ life choices reflect the influence of their parents’ decisions? Choose one to discuss:
– Finn
– Cybill
– Jennifer
– Adam
– Gable
– Joseph - Finn sold one of his kidneys to secure financial stability and later donated his other kidney to save Gabe’s life. Is one of these sacrifices more justified than the other? Why?
- As Finn’s financial situation deteriorates, he grows resentful of his luxurious possessions. Why do you think wealth often drives people to accumulate items like multiple cars and homes?
- Each character envisions how Death would come for them. Do you have a personal vision of Death? If so, what is it?
- How do Finn’s and Cybill’s childhoods shape their ambition and drive in adulthood?
- When Cybill faces the choice to sell her theater to fund Gabe’s surgery, shehesitates. What is her internal struggle, and do you think it’s justified?
- Joseph claims there are “expendable people” in fields like war, education, and medicine. Do you agree with his perspective? Why or why not?
- If Gabe and Annie came to you for advice, what guidance would you give them?
- At one point, Jennifer considers harming Gabe to obtain his kidney for Joseph. Can you empathize with her? Why or why not?
- Should a parent, like Finn, be allowed to make a life-or-death organ donation to save their child? What would be your stance on this.
- How does Micky serve as more of a parent to Gable than either Cybill or Finn? What does this suggest about the role of “parents”?
- The Italian wrestles with his involvement in organ trafficking. How does he rationalize his role, and do you find it convincing?
- Dr. Nabedi, a highly skilled surgeon, performs transplants without questioning the source of the organs. What ethical responsibilities should he uphold regarding organ acquisition?
- Mr. Smith boasts about his extravagant spending rather than helping others in need. Do you think wealthy individuals have an obligation to use their money for meaningful causes?
- Annie feels that Gabe is too strict with Adam. Do you agree with her assessment? Why?
- Micky remains steady throughout the story. What principles do you think guide his actions?
- Do you see Gabe as a hero? Why or why not?
- Fort Knox is synonymous with security and value, yet Rayna dismisses the idea of backing money with “shiny gold bricks.” What are your thoughts on the purpose and symbolism of gold reserves?
- Humanity has long tried to control time with tools like clocks and calendars. Do you think this drive to manage time helps or hinders us? How might it add to modern anxieties?
- What part of the story surprised you?
- Would you read another story by this author? Why or why not?
