Often, and especially if the story is very good, at the end of a book, Ms. Obie Joe has lots of questions about the plot and characters of a book. Absent a book club meeting, or even better, a direct line of questions for the author, the only way for a reader to find answers may be a discussion guide. Also known as a reading guide, or book club guide, these guides illuminate many aspects of the story.
The level of detail can vary:
• Questions designed to spark group conversation only, usually no more than 15-20. Wendell Berry and Andre Dubus are spectral experts at the construction of these type of Qs.
• Paragraphs of explanation, followed by questions. Mary Doria Russell, with her intriguing brand of fiction, spirituality exercises and outright science fiction, has beautiful discussion Q&As at the conclusion of many of her books.
• Character sketches and questions.
Many authors have their Discussion Guides written for them. But if you're an author with the opportunity to write your own, please do so. If it's not to be included in your book, post it on your web site, include it in your press kit, and send it out as a great enticement for a presentation before a book group or school.
It's just another way to draw in your audience. And keep them for your next book.
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