The Museum of Failures

When Remy first feels concern for Shirin when he finds her unwell, he wonders if it is a mixture of guilt and pity. What perspectives does the text offer about these two emotions?

Although the focus of the book is firmly on Remy and Shirin, there are a host of other characters who populate the pages of the book. Examine Remy’s relationship with Jango and Shenaz. Why is this dynamic important?

Once Remy learns about his family’s past, he forgives both of his parents for their respective mistakes. What does the text say about forgiveness, and what perspectives does it leave out regarding trauma and abuse?

Remy orchestrates a dinner during which he reveals the truth about his family’s past to a select number of people; however, Shirin is not entirely pleased at this decision. What does this say about The Harmful Effects of Secrecy and Shame?

Large sections of the text are flashbacks. What is the effect of this structure?

Comment on Dina Mehta’s character. What role does she play within the novel? What larger significance does her character have to the themes and ideas examined in the book?

How does Umrigar uses foreshadowing and subversion to build and maintain narrative tension within the novel?

How does Remy’s reconnection with his culture and his family parallel and influence each other throughout the novel?