Discussion Questions:
- This story follows three characters—Robin, Ian, and Amanda. How has life not turned out as expected for these three? In what ways has your life turned out differently than you expected?
- Interspersed throughout the novel are short chapters told from Robin’s first-person point of view. Which of these were your favorite and why?
- In this story, Ian and Robin have conflicting goals. Who’s goal do you relate or sympathize with the most and why?
- Amanda is young and impulsive, but means well. Do you agree with the way she handled things with Ian and Robin? Why or why not?
- Do you think Robin and Ian are well-suited for each other? Why or why not? What was your favorite Ian-Robin moment?
- Robin often feels like an Israelite wandering in the desert. Talk about a time in your life where you felt the same. Looking back, what did you learn or how did you grow through that experience?
- Ian has a hard time going to his church back home because of his divorce. He feels like a failure and a disappointment. Have you ever felt this way? What verses, songs, or words of wisdom have you found helpful when you or a friend is battling feelings of shame or unworthiness?
- Robin experienced two big losses in her life—her mother and her husband. Have you ever lost someone close to you? How was your experience similar to or different from Robin’s?
- This novel explores the importance of fathers. We have Ian, who grew up in a home with an involved father, and Caleb, who is growing up in a home without a father. How important do you think fathers are in shaping who we are? What role has your father played in your life?
- If you were Robin, do you think you’d have an easier or a harder time moving on?
- On the top of p. 270, Robin poses a difficult question to Amanda. Do you agree with Amanda’s answer? What might you have said if Robin would have asked you for advice?
- Robin struggles with fear, especially fear of letting go of what’s familiar and comfortable and stepping into the unknown. Can you relate to this? Talk about a journey you’ve thought about taking, but haven’t yet because of fear. What blessings might you experience if you were to step out into those uncharted territories?
- Robin processes and explores her emotions through piano music. What in your life helps you process your feelings?
- Ian’s mom says that sometimes, God’s grace comes in a messy package. What do you think she means by this? Have you experienced this in your life? If so, please share.
- Do you think Ian made the right choice in the end? What repercussions might his decision have on the people he cares about? In his position, would you have done the same thing or would you have chosen differently?