READERS GUIDE

Reader’s Guide
Eliza Starts a Rumor by Jane L. Rosen
Discussion Questions:

1. The four women in Eliza Starts a Rumor are quite different from one another. Which of the women did you most connect with?

2. Do you belong to any online women’s groups? What have they given you that you couldn’t find elsewhere? Have you ever posted or commented on something online that you regret?

3. Jackie freaks out when his daughter Jana wants to use a tampon. How did your mother handle this? Was it different than how you would?

4. Like Eliza, we all stayed home for a long period of time, but due to COVID-19. What was this experience like for you? Do you think the accessibility of the Internet and the aftereffects of COVID-19 will spur more agoraphobia in the world?

5. This book celebrates the value of community and friendship among women. In what ways do you feel the opportunities tocreate community have changed over the past ten years? Do you find it easier or harder to sustain friendships?

6. Do you think Eliza’s actions of posting the rumor came in part because of her feelings of inadequacy surrounding becoming an empty nester? If you have children, do you worry about that time in your life, whether it’s in front of you or behind you?

7. Do you agree with Alison’s life choices? Why or why not?

8. Did you find how Olivia went about catching Spencer cheating to be satisfying? Do you think you would have had the strength, courage, and patience to wait it out like she did?

9. When Olivia’s crisis comes to a head Amanda points out how she still has time for a do-over. How do you think the #MeToo environment is affecting women’s choices and actions today? Do you think how Eliza and Amanda originally dealt with their adversities would be different in the current environment?

10. Do you believe that Carson was sincere in his remorse or do you think it was a publicity stunt? Do you think men like him are capable of change?

11. Near the end of the book Eliza’s mother, Birdie, guiltily apologizes for never calling Eliza pretty as a child. Do you understand her guilt? Do you think it’s valid?

12. Were you surprised by the ending of the book? Were you satisfied with each of the women’s transformations and trajectories?