Were there moments they shared in the story that particularly resonated with you? What compromises did Ana make within the marriage? What does it mean to 'belong' to someone? What does it mean to belong to oneself?ħ. Discuss the relationship between Ana and Jesus. Are there inhibiting cultural expectations placed on women today, and if so, how much do they differ depending on other factors such as race, class, and birthplace? How are these expectations represented in marriage ceremonies, then and now?Ħ. Though Ana is born to a wealthy family and has been afforded some education, her parents have arranged for her to marry an older man whom she despises, and they expect her to give up her scholarly ambitions. What do you think is Yaltha’s most profound influence on Ana? Has there been anyone in your life like Yaltha? How do you think you have been shaped by the older women in your life?ĥ. Ana’s aunt Yaltha is described as being as tough, clever, defiant, and daring as she is nurturing: 'Her mind was an immense feral country that spilled its borders. What rules and customs surprised you? Which parts of the story feel especially relevant to modern-day life? Did you identify with Ana in any way?Ĥ.

Though fictional, The Book of Longings is also a deeply researched account of life two thousand years ago. What role does Ana’s incantation bowl play in her quest to realize her longing? What is the importance of ritualizing one’s faith or longings? If you were given an incantation bowl in which to inscribe your deepest longing, what might you write? What can our longings teach us?ģ. How does the novel’s theme of finding and expressing one’s authentic voice unfold in the story? What forces work to silence contemporary women and what emboldens them?Ģ.

She is passionate about the power of writing, of narratives, of having a voice, as well as lifting up the voices of other women.

Ana is a character defined by her longings and aspirations.

Sue monk kidd the book of longings