Girl Unmoored brings up different themes about love, loss and what it means to save someone. Here are some starter questions for further discussion about the book:
- What was unique about the setting, Falmouth, Maine, of Girl Unmoored and how did it enhance the story?
- “Coming unmoored” is a core theme in the book. For Apron, what does it mean? What do you think the author is trying to get across to the reader through this nautical reference? What other themes are prevalent?
- While coming of age is a universal theme, how might Apron’s individual experience affect her as an adult? How does it reflect the author’s world view?
- How does the time period of the book, 1985, influence behaviors, attitudes and opinions of the characters?
- What is real and believable about these characters? Can you relate to their predicaments? To what extent do they remind you of yourself or someone you know?
- To Apron, why does Mike look so much like Jesus? Why does she try to avoid him in the beginning?
- What is the significance of Scent Appeal, Mike and Chad’s flower shop? What does Mike and Chad’s relationship symbolize?
- The Latin language is prevalent throughout the book. What does it say about Dennis’ ability (or inability) to communicate with his daughter, with M?
- Do you think M left her baby to Dennis and Apron as an apology for her actions, or do you think she abandoned her child in an attempt to erase her entire life with the Bramhalls?
- To what extent does Apron eventually become “moored”? What events trigger such changes and how much does Mike have to do with it? Does he, indeed, save her?
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