Free Food for Millionaires

The novel’s central conflict revolves around Casey’s desire to achieve economic security and a meaningful place in the world. Does Casey struggle more with this desire than other characters? What makes it so difficult for her to choose a path in life? By the end of the novel, has Casey found a purpose and direction?

Casey and Ella are childhood friends with very different personalities. How are their differences reflected in the choices they make? What topics provoke conflict between Casey and Ella, and what do these conflicts stem from? What qualities do the two women come to admire in each other?

How does Casey’s identity as a Korean American woman affect her experiences of class and privilege? Consider why Min Jin Lee depicts Korean American characters with different economic backgrounds. Also consider how the older versus younger characters relate to their traditions and cultural identity.

The novel depicts a number of instances of infidelity (as well as Leah’s belief that her rape constitutes a form of infidelity). What factors motivate the characters to engage in infidelity? How does the infidelity shape them afterward? What does it teach them about themselves and others?

How do the characters engage differently with religion? For those who are devout Christians, why is their faith meaningful to them? What, if any, constraints or difficulties does religious faith create for the characters who are believers?

The novel depicts female characters with a wide range of attitudes toward sex. What makes characters like Delia and Casey more pragmatic about sex? What factors are implied to be necessary for a woman to enjoy her own sexuality? How does Leah’s plotline complicate the novel’s depiction of sexuality?

Why does Casey have an affair with Hugh? How are Casey’s other desires (for wealth, security, and purpose) manifested in her relationship with Hugh? Consider what she finds attractive about him. Also consider the significance of Casey recoiling from him after seeing the pornography he watches.

Is it surprising when Casey admits that she doesn’t want to finish her MBA, or accept the offer to work as an investment banker? Why does Casey work so hard toward these goals if she doesn’t truly want them? What factors lead Casey to pursue this career path, and how do her motivations change over the course of the novel?