Wintergirls

The author uses many unique stylistic choices in the writing, such as crossed-out phrases and pages left blank. Track the various stylistic choices used in the novel. Why do you think the author chose to write this way? What is the effect?

In what ways is Lia an unreliable narrator? What are some early clues that may suggest her telling of the story is unreliable?

What is Lia’s relationship like with her mother, father, and stepmother?

What is Lia’s relationship like with Emma? How is Emma important to Lia?

What is Lia’s relationship like with doctors? Why is Lia so apprehensive of doctors at the beginning of the novel? Do you think her attitude toward doctors changes by the end of the novel?

Why do Lia and Cassie refer to themselves as wintergirls? What does Lia mean by this term?

What oath did Lia and Cassie make on New Year’s Eve in eighth grade? What effect did this oath have on Lia and Cassie throughout their teenage years?

In Chapter 25, Lia mentions that everyone expects her to attend the college where her father teaches after graduation. Lia thinks, “What do I want? The answer to that question does not exist” (104). Why do you think Lia has such a hard time imagining a future for herself?