READERS GUIDE

Social Animals Reading Group Guide
1.     Val, Alex, and June all come from very different backgrounds, and all converge at a dog park for very different reasons. In what ways are dogs the perfect decoy for Val and Alex to infiltrate June’s inner circle?
2.     As Val, June, and Alex get to work on making a case for the dog park’s renovation, they slowly begin to see one another clearly. What is it about a shared project that has the capacity to bring people together?
3.     Now in her thirties, June feels as if she’s forgotten how to socialize. We see her anxiety about this slip through every now and then, especially as it pertains to her growing friendship with Alex. What is it about this period in life that prompts a reevaluation of our ability to connect with others?
4.     Val, Alex, and June are all lonely in some way. How do they cope with loneliness differently?
5.     Particularly through Val’s character, the novel explores the concept of nature versus nurture, questioning why we are the way we are and whether we have the power to change if we want to. Do you think human beings truly have the capacity to change? 
6.     Val, Alex, and June have vastly different relationships to money. In what ways does social class and economic privilege play a role in this novel?
7.     On the forefront, this novel explores the idea of dog ownership and all the various duties that entails. But as we glimpse deeper into the lives of Val, Alex, and June, the theme of ownership takes on a more layered meaning. Discuss the ways in which we see our protagonists take charge of their own lives.
8.     How do you feel about the character Silas Kennerson? Do you consider him to be a villain? Are you satisfied with his ending?
9.     The title Social Animals speaks to the ways in which we all need and seek out connection. To what extent does author Camille Perri illustrate both the ease and complexity of finding community in this day and age? If it weren’t for each character’s ulterior motives, do you think any of them would have ever crossed paths?
10.  Which was your favorite comedic scene and why? To what extent do you think humor is vital to telling this story?
11.  If Social Animals were a movie or TV show, who do you imagine would play the starring roles?
12.  The book’s jacket features a dog based on the author’s own. In celebration of pets everywhere, share what your pet means or meant to you.
13.  What do you see next for Val, Alex, and June?