Reading Group Guidelines

A Page Out of Life Reading Group Guide

What is your first impression of Ashley? Do you think she’s the stereotypical suburban stay-at-home mom? If she had maintained a career outside the home, do you think she would feel better about herself?
How can today’s women have it all? Do women place impossible standards upon themselves or does society do it for them? Is it possible for a woman to look her best, be an excellent wife and mother, keep a clean home and succeed in business?
Tara seems to be completely pulled together on the surface: she’s beautiful, ambitious, smart, meticulous and good-natured. Why is she drawn to Ashley?
Do you think scrapbooking is a viable hobby for these women? If not, why? Why is it important that women of all ages can enjoy this project and connect in a more meaningful manner? How does scrapbooking compare to say, the quilting clubs of the 19th century when women gathered together to sew while their husbands were away?
Libby is faced with a mother’s worst nightmare—a grown son who is facing personal and professional ruin. If you were in her position, would you continue to believe in him?
How much responsibility should any parent assume for the mistakes made by their children? What do you think is fair?
How much can Ashley and Tara blame their own parents for their relationship issues? Whose fault is it anyway?
The scrapbooking group becomes a sisterhood of women who support each other through good times and bad. Rate the importance of your women friends versus your husband/boyfriend/partner. Is there a difference in how you treat these relationships?
The story is told through the eyes of three very different women: Ashley, Tara and Libby. Do you identify with one character more than the others? Why?
Today’s world is governed by the principle of instant gratification from cell phones to computers to fast food; technology has made it difficult for people to sit still and be quiet. How has technology changed the way you do things? Are you more impatient now than you once were? Do you control your cell phone or does it control you? Why is it important to slow down and savor our family and friends? Do you take the time you need to capture those memorable moments in words or in pictures? If not, what are you waiting for?