Properties of Thirst

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of racism.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Some historical novels, like The Son by Philipp Meyer, use history in dynamic ways, expounding on commonly known historical facts while also developing their own microcosms within the larger scope of history. How does this novel fit into your notion of a historical novel? Did it feel like the novel was trying to expound on a historical event by fictionalizing it? Or was it trying to achieve something else with its use of history?

2. Who was your favorite character? Was it a member of the Rhodes family? Or someone at Manzanar? Discuss the qualities that drew you to your chosen character.

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Sunny is connected to her family by food. What are the things that connect you to your family? Do you have any hobbies or common practices that remind you of your membership in a larger collective?

2. How did you feel about the novel’s portrayal of discrimination against Japanese Americans during World War II? What factors do you think drive this kind of bias, particularly in a wartime setting?