1. What historical facts throughout the book were you surprised to learn? Anything about WWII and England at that time? About way of life and trends?

2. What are your impressions of Elizabeth’s mother? Do you think she handled her family well given her circumstances?

3. Do you agree with Elizabeth’s choice to leave home at such a young age? Do you think many of the difficult decisions that Elizabeth was forced to make at a young age gave her the tools to become the successful woman she is today?

4. Elizabeth worked a few jobs at the same time. Have you ever had to push yourself almost beyond your limits to achieve a dream?

5. What do you think of Elizabeth’s 5 principles that are her foundation for living? Do you have a list of plans that you choose to live by?

6.  Elizabeth was a kindred spirit in Charles’ life and vice versa. What do you make of their friendship and how do they help each other?

7.  What was it like to read a first hand account from Elizabeth on her life? Did it enhance the story? Does it make her story more realistic? Could you empathize with her experiences more?

8.  Much of Elizabeth’s story takes place in the mid 1900’s when it was more difficult for women to make it in business on their own. Women were constricted by their family, social conventions, economy --- do you think some of these issues still affect women in business today? Are there other issues at play now?

9. Due to some poor accounting on Sydney’s behalf, Elizabeth had to declare bankruptcy. How did Elizabeth find it within herself to handle this situation and not play the blame game? What got her through this period?

10. What do you think is the most important advice/ life lesson that Elizabeth offers to us in this book?