1. End-of-Novel discussion questions. Discuss; be ready to share.
How does Florence’s death affect Antonio?
What do you think of Antonio’s mother as a person? Does she help her family or hold them back?
Explore the symbolism of Antonio dream of using his brother’s livers as bait in the river with the golden carp.
Explain the circumstances that led to Tenorio’s death.
What are some effects of the conversation Antonio and Gabriel had at the end of the novel?
What role do Antonio’s dreams play –in the whole novel? –in the end of the novel?
What aspects of Magical Realism do you see in the plot?

2. Small Group Discussions
Describe the following characters’ views on forgiveness and how you know they would feel that way:
Ultima
Antonio
Gabriel (Antonio’s father)
Maria (Antonio’s Mother)
Narciso
Tenorio

3. Small Group Discussions
What is Florence’s version of hell? Why does he reject God? What does he cause Antonio to question? How is Florence similar to a Christ-like figure?
Why does Florence say Antonio can never be their priest? (Think about the qualities Antonio does/does not possess and what he is/is not willing to do.)

4. Small Group Discussions
How does Antonio feel after taking communion the first time and what does this represent?
Describe the incident at the Tellez home and why it is significant to the story, particularly Antonio’s development?
In Antonio’s dream, he throws the livers from his three brothers to the River Carp. Why? What does this symbolize?

5. Divide your paper into 16 sections.
Label one per section: Ultima, Ultima’s Owl, Luna, Marez, Antonio, Antonio’s brothers, Narciso, Florence, Tenorio, Uncle Lucas, School, Communion, the Golden Carp, Tellez, and the curandera.
List the 5 W’s (who, what do they do, when, where, why are they significant) for each.