Does the title accurately represent the book? Other titles the author considered were “Dear History” and “This is How I Love You.”

What about the story makes it particularly “American”?

You may have noticed that Tayari Jones does not specify the race of the woman who accuses Roy of rape. How dd you picture this woman? What difference might that make to how you understood the storyline?

Andre insists that he doesn’t owe Roy an apology for the way his relationship with Celestial changed. Do you agree?

What kind of husband is Roy? How was their marriage?

What do you make of his decision to make a connection with Davina when released from prison?

Towards the end of the novel, Celestial does a complete about-turn and returns to Roy. Was this justifiable? Was it believable?

What role do the various father figures play in the story? Do mothers have as much of a role?

What do you make of Celestial’s decision in not acknowledging Roy’s part in the creation of her artwork?

How did you find the tone of their letters to each other?

The author originally wrote the book just from Celestial’s point of view. Why do you think she changed it?