All the Broken Places

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Would you describe All the Broken Places as a novel about the Holocaust? About World War II? Why or why not?
• How would you characterize the novel’s overall mood? Did you enjoy it? Why or why not?
• Have you read The Boy in the Striped Pajamas? If so, how does the sequel compare in terms of tone, themes, style, etc.? If you haven’t, do you feel that All the Broken Places functions as a stand-alone novel?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Given the novel’s subject matter, were there any parts you found particularly difficult to read? In retrospect, are you glad you stuck with the novel? If you’re someone who often reads novels that tackle challenging topics, what would you say “enjoying” a work means in that context?
• Did you find Gretel sympathetic, given her past? To what extent does she share responsibility for her family’s crimes and (ultimately) her brother’s death? Do you feel that atonement and redemption are possible in such circumstances? Why or why not?
• The Boy in the Striped Pajamas sparked criticism for its portrayal of the Holocaust—in particular, its decision to center a gentile German boy.