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Reading Group Guide

Discussion Questions

The Way Forward Is With A Broken Heart

1. In the Jim Crow South, whites had daily, often intimate contact with blacks whom they trusted to work in their homes and care for their children. Given that context, what was their rationale for en-acting laws against interracial marriage?

2. What are some of the societal messages put forth about interracial relationships today?

3. How does the epistolary technique have an impact on the narrative in 'To My Young Husband"?

4. What can be learned from the experiences of biracial children in an increasingly diverse society?

5. In 'Kindred Spirits' the narrator makes reference to Cuban immi-grants in the United States. Discuss the Cuban revolution and its impact on American politics.

6. Discuss the relationship between Marcella, Angel, and Sally as depicted in 'There Was a River.' How would you handle such a scenario?

7. How is the subject of pornography addressed in 'The Brotherhood of the Saved'? Is it possible to limit access to pornography without breaching First Amendment rights?

8. If you brought your gift to Alice Walker, what would it be?
 

The Way Forward Is With A Broken Heart
by Alice Walker

  • Publication Date: October 2, 2001
  • Paperback: 240 pages
  • Publisher: Ballantine Books
  • ISBN-10: 0345407954
  • ISBN-13: 9780345407955