READERS GUIDE

Reader’s Guide
An Infinite Love Story by Chanel Cleeton
Discussion Questions:


1.   Were you familiar with the Space Race before you read An Infinite Love Story? What was your impression of it? Did you learn anything new that surprised you?

2.   Have you ever watched a space launch either live or on television? What did you think of it?

3.   Do you support space exploration? Why or why not? If given the opportunity, do you think you would want to go to space?

4.   Vivian believes that her career in television provides an opportunity to connect the public through the shared experience of major televised events. Joe similarly believes that going to the Moon will provide hope and inspiration. Are there world events that you remember in your lifetime that created the sense of connection Vivian and Joe aspire to? What memories do you have of these events?

5.   Vivian struggles to be taken seriously as a woman working in television. Did you identify with some of the challenges Vivian faced? Why or why not?

6.   When Vivian initially meets Joe, she doesn’t really think he is her type. Little by little, she starts to realize that they have more in common than she thought and her attraction to him deepens. What interests or traits do you think they share? How are they different?

7.   Despite the love that they have for each other, Vivian and Joe struggle with navigating their marriage amid the demands of his career in
the military and later as an astronaut. Did you identify with some of the challenges they faced? Were you surprised to learn that the divorce rate was so high for members of the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo space programs?

8. Vivian talks about her struggles with feeling as though she is somewhat of a celebrity due to the interest in her husband’s job. What did you think about the way she was expected to share her grief with the world? Did you understand her point of view? How would you feel if you were
put in such a situation?

9. Throughout the novel, Polly and Vivian’s friendship is a source of strength for both women as they navigate triumphs and tragedies. What
examples of their friendship did you see in the novel? Do you have a friend like that in your life?

10. Joe views space travel as an opportunity to explore the universe around us and to gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between space and time. Do you believe time travel is possible? What do you think exists in space?

11. What similarities do you see between Cal’s and Joe’s characters? What differences? Do you think one is better suited for Vivian’s personality?