The Personal Librarian

Art serves many functions in the novel. Describe these purposes and compare and contrast the impact that the characters’ understanding of one or more of these purposes has on their choices.

Belle engages in a near constant struggle to protect her autonomy as she works for J.P. Near the end of her working relationship with J.P., Belle finally stands up to him when he claims ownership over her. What ultimately gives her the courage to challenge him? Support your discussion with specific moments from the text.

The Personal Librarian includes numerous examples of important art and rare texts. Select one of these pieces of art and discuss what it symbolizes for one or more of the characters.

The authors include several kinds of relationships throughout the novel, including Anne’s “Boston marriage,” Bernard’s open marriage with Mary, and Belle’s off-and-on arrangement with Bernard. Describe these relationships. What do the many kinds of relationships described tell you about marriage, relationships, and sexuality during the time periods represented by the novel?

Clothing, particularly the clothes Belle wears, is an important marker of identity in the novel. Analyze the role of clothing as a motif and means of characterization in the novel.

Research the genre of the passing narrative. Where does the novel rely on this genre’s conventions , and where does it depart from them? What is the impact of how the novel engages with those conventions?

Belle has to contend with sexism, racism, and class differences simultaneously in order to overcome challenges. Discuss the role that these overlapping forms of oppression have on Belle and how they shape the choices she makes.

The events of the novel span almost 80 years from the end of Reconstruction to the dawn of the modern Civil Rights Movement. Research one of the periods covered in the novel (Post-Reconstruction, the Gilded Age, the Progressive Period, the Harlem Renaissance, and the world wars), then discuss the impact of this setting on the choices and conflicts that shape the lives of the characters.