Spoiler Warning: These book club discussion questions on The Given Day by Dennis Lehane reveal important details about novel. Finish the book before reading on.
- Do you think Lehane was successful in writing his first historical fiction?
- Do you think Lehane was able to reign in and connect all the characters and themes?
- What did you think of his use of Babe Ruth as a character?
- What other historical figures stood out to you?
- What historical events surprised you in this novel? Did it make you research the history of Boston during this time?
- Out of the main characters (Luther, Danny, Nora), who did you empathize with the most? Why?
- Do you think the union should have gone on strike? Why or why not?
- What do you think would happen if a similar event occurred today?
- "Boston had to be the least safe city he'd ever come across in his life. The Athens of America...he’d change the name to the Asylum of America."
After reading the novel and reflecting on this quote, which description do you think best describes Boston? Either? Both?
- Rate The Given Day from 1 to 5.
