Marley & Me by John Grogan - Book Club Discussion Questions

Marley & Me by John Grogan is the true story of Grogan's relationship with his Labrador retriever. Marley starts as a small puppy, but quickly develops into 97 pounds of destructive power. Use these questions to lead your book club discussion on this nonfiction bestseller. Also be sure to check out my review of Marley & Me for more food for thought.

1. The sub-title of Marley & Me is "Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog." Do you think Marley deserves the title "World's Worst Dog?"
   
   
2. Is the story of "life and love" primarily between John and his dog, or was Marley just a sidekick in a story about John and his family? Were you surprised by how much non-dog related content the book contained? Did you enjoy the parts about John's family or did you wish he would just get on to another dog story?
   
   
3. Did any of Marley's antics strike you as particularly humorous?
   
   
4. Did any parts of the book make you cry?
   
   
5. Is this only a book for pet lovers or would people without pets like it too?
   
   
6. If you don't already own a dog, did this book make you want one or did it make you think twice about any impulse you might have to get one?
   
   
7. Why do you think Marley & Me topped the bestsellers list after it was released? What's the mass appeal? Do you agree with the hype? Would you recommend the book?
   
   
8. Rate this book on a scale of 1 to 5.