June 2020 Book Club Discussion – The Overdue Life of Amy Byler

For June we read, The Overdue Life of Amy Byler by Kelly Harms (commissioned link). This was a laugh-out loud book that was the perfect summer read. What were your initial thoughts on the book? Did they change as your read? For our virtual book discussion. Feel free to leave comments on any or all of the questions or use this guide for your next book club.

The Overdue Life of Amy Byler Book Club Discussion

1. It seemed so shocking that Amy’s husband, John, goes on a work trip and doesn’t return for three years. John wants to work at being a better father. How realistic is his character? Would you be able to forgive him?
2. Amy continuously struggled with mom guilt throughout the book. She wanted what all mom’s want to keep her kids safe and ensure they are loved. What connections were you able to make to Amy’s character?
3. Being an ELA teacher for middle schoolers, I loved seeing the YA literature mentioned in the book. I love how the daughter wrote letters to her mother about what she is reading–I might have to use this strategy with my own daughters. Have you read any of the titles? What did you think of the allusions the author used throughout the book?
4. Amy needs a handful of people to help her take a break from her everyday life. Who is your go to person to help you see life differently or get a break from your reality? Is that person more like Lena, Talia, Kathryn, or Matt? What types of things do you to do step away from your reality?
5. When reading, what at part stood out to you the most? Why?
6. What lessons did Amy learn that you could apply to your own life?

Thanks to those that joined us in June on this collective read. Please share your thoughts in the comments. This is an ongoing, open discussion thread.

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If you missed May’s post, but have read or want to read The Woman in the Window by A.J. Finn (commissioned link), follow the link to the discussion questions and leave your thoughts!

For July, 365 Days of New is reading Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid (commissioned link) which was just released December 2019. This book looks at racial profiling as the main character, Emira Tucker, a 25 year old Black girl who works two jobs as a receptionist and babysitter, is accused of kidnapping the baby in her care. The book switches perspectives between characters throughout the story to show different events as they unfold. I have not read this yet, but will be interested to learn more. With the marches nationwide bringing systemic racisim to the forefront in this country, this might be a good book to read when looking at perceptions and privilege.

Check out all of 365 Days of New’s 2020 book club choices here.