READERS GUIDE

Questions and Topics for Discussion

1. In the first chapter, Mary Frances thinks of her night with Tim: “It wasn’t love, but rather an appetite’s demand: direct, imperative, true as love perhaps, but far more dangerous” (p. 13). What impact does Mary Frances’s appetite—for sex, for food, for success in her writing—have on her life? Do you see it as a dangerous force, or a more positive one? 

2. M.F.K. Fisher is one of the most admired food writers of all time. Did the fact that the book is based on events from her life influence the way you read it? Why or why not?

3. What types of struggles does Mary Frances face as a woman, both in her career as a writer and in her personal life? How does she deal with them? Do you think she fully overcomes them? Which of these issues do you see as a product of the time, and which do you think she might still face today?

4. The book’s descriptions of food are just as sensual as its descriptions of desire. What role does hunger play in the book? In your opinion, does Mary Frances seek pleasure or sustenance? 

5. How does his divorce from Gigi affect Tim? Do you think he would have given himself over to Mary Frances if Gigi hadn’t wanted a divorce? Discuss how marriage is viewed by each of the book’s main characters.

6. Mary Frances and Tim’s journey to France begins in the middle of the book. How does this section act as a turning point? What is different before and after this trip? How does travel change Mary Frances’s perspective? 

7. Mary Frances and Al have a very complicated relationship. Do they really love each other? Who do you think holds more power in the relationship? How does each of their writing concern their relationship? What about their childlessness? Why do you think they stay married so long?

8. The characters live in several unconventional “arrangements” in the book—Al and Mary Frances living with Gigi; Mary Frances traveling with Tim and his mother; then Mary Frances, Al, and Tim all living together in Switzerland. Are these arrangements a good idea? How do they affect the characters? How would they be viewed today?

9. The novel is set between two major historical events—the Great Depression and World War II. What effect do these events have on the story? The characters?

10. What do you make of the book’s ending? Is Mary Frances happy? Is she satisfied?