24 Book Club Discussion Questions for 'Funny Story' by Emily Henry
By Kyle Colley, Apr 18, 2024
Socratic/Group Discussion Questions:
1 - In Funny Story, both Daphne and Miles undergo significant personal growth. How do their individual journeys intersect and influence each other's development?
2 - The novel explores the concept of home and belonging. How does each character define "home," and how does this definition evolve throughout the story?
3 - Daphne and Miles initially form a connection based on shared heartbreak. How does their shared experience of betrayal shape their relationship, and do you think it ultimately strengthens or complicates it?
4 - The theme of second chances is prevalent in Funny Story, not just in romantic relationships but also in personal aspirations. How do the characters embrace or resist the idea of starting over, and what does this say about their resilience?
5 - Emily Henry incorporates various romantic tropes into the story, such as opposites attract and friends to lovers. How does the author subvert or reinvent these tropes to create a fresh and engaging narrative?
(Photo by Mari Potter on Unsplash)
Light-hearted and Fun Questions:
6 - If Funny Story were adapted into a movie, who would you cast as Daphne and Miles, and why?
7 - The characters in Funny Story embark on several quirky and adventurous outings. If you could join Daphne and Miles on one of their Saturday adventures, which activity would you choose and why?
8 - In the spirit of the book's humor, share a funny or awkward moment from your own life that you think Daphne and Miles would appreciate or relate to.
(Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash)
General Book Discussion Questions:
9 - Daphne experiences a significant upheaval in her life when Peter leaves her for his childhood best friend. How does this event shape her character arc throughout the story?
10 - Miles and Daphne are portrayed as complete opposites. How does their contrasting personalities contribute to the development of their relationship?
11 - The setting of Waning Bay, Michigan, plays a prominent role in the story. How does the small-town atmosphere enhance the narrative and affect the characters?
12 - Friendship is highlighted as a crucial theme in the book, especially in Daphne's journey of self-discovery. Discuss the importance of platonic relationships in the story.
13 - Humor is a central element in Funny Story. How does Emily Henry use humor to explore deeper themes such as heartbreak and self-discovery?
14 - Throughout the book, Daphne struggles with vulnerability and opening up to others. How does her dynamic with Miles challenge her walls and defenses?
15 - The fake dating trope is often used in romantic comedies. How does Funny Story put a unique spin on this trope, and what does it add to the story?
16 - Daphne's job as a children's librarian is significant to her character. How does her profession influence her personality and interactions with others?
17 - Family dynamics play a role in shaping both Daphne and Miles. How do their family backgrounds affect their behavior and choices?
18 - The book explores themes of forgiveness and moving on from past hurts. How do the characters navigate forgiveness, both for themselves and for others, throughout the story?
(Photo by Markos Mant on Unsplash)
Emily Henry Book-Verse Question:
19 - Based on all the books Emily Henry has written, do you think she is the modern book world's Nora Ephron? Why or Why not?
20 - How do the small-town settings in Funny Story and Book Lovers shape the themes and character dynamics in each novel?
21 - Compare Daphne's journey of self-discovery in Funny Story to the character growth in Emily Henry's Beach Read?
22 - Think about the parallels between the romantic dynamics in Funny Story and Beach Read regarding trust and overcoming past traumas.
23 - Discuss the similarities in humor and banter between Funny Story and Emily Henry's other novels, such as People We Meet on Vacation.
24 - How does the theme of friendship in Funny Story compare to its portrayal in People We Meet on Vacation, and how does it impact character development?
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