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59 pages 1 hour read

An Absolutely Remarkable Thing

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2018

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Essay Topics

1.

How much of April’s art appreciation is a persona? Is it a part of the real April, or is it the person she aspires to be?

2.

How much is the “April May” brand carefully crafted, and how much of it is pure April May? Is she truly able to separate her brand and personal identity, or do they at some point become one and the same?

3.

What motivates April to break up with Maya, and why is she relieved afterward? Does it have to do with the fears of the real April or the aspiration of the April May brand?

4.

Andy remains a constant in April’s life, and he is by her side both when she makes her most questionable decisions and in near-death situations. Is Andy a good friend or an enabler? Is it possible to be both?

5.

What is the power of social media as evident through April’s experiences? How exactly does it impact her and those around her, for better or for worse? Is social media all bad, or can it be a force of good?

6.

April very quickly becomes and addicted to and obsessed with fame and attention. Maya thinks this is because April is desperate for love, like any human. What is the real reason April is addicted to fame, and why? Is it because of her ego, or is it simply human nature? 

7.

While still unclear by the end of the story, what seems to be the Carls’ true purpose on Earth? Do the Carls visit to observe humanity? What purpose do they serve for the human psyche? 

8.

The Defenders believe the Dream to be invasive and dangerous, as it physically alters the brain and grant humans experiences that would otherwise be impossible. However, the Dreamers believe it provides a necessary platform for people around the world to work together. Does one argument make more sense, or are both sides equally legitimate?

9.

While Carl doesn’t entirely answer April’s question of his intent and purpose, he tells April that, after observation, he believes mankind to be beautiful. What about the nature of humanity does Carl probably find beautiful, and why?

10.

April relates past events while talking to the reader and gives major spoilers throughout the novel. While such foreshadowing can prove to give away future events, what purpose does this narrative style serve? Does it give too much away? Or does it spark interest and keep the reader hooked?

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