Absolution

1. General Impressions 

Objective: Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• What are your overall impressions of Jean and Patricia in Absolution? Did you find that you relate to one character more than the other, or did you find similarities to and differences from both characters?
• How does this book differ from other narratives about Vietnam after the war? Does it take more accountability or less than other Vietnam narratives you have read?
• Consider the book Atonement by Ian McEwan. Broadly, how do both books present seeking forgiveness by narrative means?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

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

• Have you ever questioned the authenticity of or motivations for your participation in any humanitarian events or activities? If you consider these aspects of your humanitarian work now, was there any part of you that contributed to these efforts for reasons beyond the cause you wanted to help?
• How did the critical nature of the friendship between Jean and Patricia impact you? 
• Which moments in the text made you feel tense or upset? If you consider the novel’s core idea of tension surrounding events that people feel guilty about, does this help you see your feelings in a new light?
• Have you ever traveled to a country or region that was struggling? How did this make you feel as a visitor?
• Secrets are uncovered in Jean’s manuscript by Patricia.