The Guncle Abroad

Maisie and Grant, often so united, split in their opinion of Livia. Compare and contrast their reasoning for accepting or not accepting Livia; how does this contribute to their characterization?

Palmina and Patrick are enemies through much of The Guncle Abroad. What perspectives does the text offer about the LGBTQIA+ community through their relationship?

Patrick often feels The Tension of Aging when he thinks of Emory and the age difference between them. How does Patrick’s past with Joe influence his view of Emory and their relationship, particularly around the subject of age?

Though Sara is not alive during the events of The Guncle Abroad, her presence is undeniable. How is Sara characterized through memories?

Greg, Clara, and Patrick are all well within the bounds of middle age, and each searches for a new identity in the novel. How does Rowley portray the mid-life experience?

Love is at the heart of The Guncle Abroad. How do romantic and familial love impact Patrick’s growth over the course of the novel?

Food and drinks are used throughout the novel to help develop Patrick’s teachings about love. Choose one example; how does it connect with the theme of The Impact of Love on Self-Perception?

The Guncle Abroad takes place half-way around the world from where The Guncle occurs. How does travel impact Grant and Maisie? What role does setting play in this novel?