High Tide in Tucson

Consider comedy in Kingsolver’s writing. How does she use humor, and what purpose does it serve?

In the Prologue, Kingsolver recommends that the essays be read in order. How does the ordering of the essays affect the overall message of the book?

Discuss gender roles and expectations in at least two of the essays in the book. How does Kingsolver think about US attitudes towards women? Are her arguments meant to persuade those who disagree with her? Why or why not?

Close read at least three metaphors Kingsolver uses to describe the natural world. What kinds of comparisons does she reach for? Do they clarify, complicate, or otherwise transform her descriptions?

Kingsolver is primarily a fiction writer. Compare this book to one of her works of fiction. How do they differ? How are they similar?

How does Kingsolver’s status as a scientist affect High Tide in Tucson’s content, tone, and messaging?

Many of the essays in this book have been heavily edited for the collection. Read at least one in its original source, and compare and contrast the versions. How does the context affect the content and message of the essay(s)?

Kingsolver is interested in small communities: Some examples are her Kentucky home town, the cave of ancient tools near Tucson, the island of La Gomera. Compare at least two of the small communities she profiles. Why does she find these units of organization interesting?