The Office of Historical Corrections

How do the stories “Boys Go to Jupiter” and “The Office of Historical Corrections” handle the ideas of personal and collective histories? Discuss the theme as it is conveyed in the text using at least two other literary elements.

Identify the protagonist and antagonist of two different stories. How do the antagonists influence the protagonists’ character arcs?

What themes from Danielle Evans’s first book, Before You Suffocate Your Own Fool Self, are present in this collection?

Choose the role of settings in the collection. How do they develop the collection’s themes?

How would the story “Boys Go to Jupiter” have been different if it was told from the perspective of Carmen instead of Claire? Discuss the impact it would have on the characterization of both girls as well as the theme of Intersectional Discrimination: Skin Color and Gender.

Two stories end on an ambiguous note for the protagonists—“Boys Go to Jupiter” and “Richard of York Gave Battle in Vain.” Trace the protagonists’ arcs and explore possible outcomes for their stories.

Consider the mother figures in the stories “Alcatraz,” “Anything Could Disappear,” and the “Office of Historical Corrections.” What does Evans have to say about motherhood?

This collection has several flawed or tragic female protagonists. Choose two and compare and contrast how their actions, the actions of others, and their experiences with race do or do not contribute to their flawed characters.