Small Great Things

1. General Impressions 

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• What were your initial thoughts on the alternating perspectives between Ruth, Kennedy, and Turk?
• Did the novel’s opening leave you hopeful or worried about Ruth’s journey and decision to follow in her mother’s footsteps?
• Consider this book in relation to The Help by Kathryn Stockett. In what ways do both texts examine Black women navigating white-dominated spaces? How are Black women in each text positioned as being adjacent to but not a part of the family system?



2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• How did Ruth’s initial response to the Bauers’ request make you feel? How might you have handled their request?
• Ruth’s murder charge and trial are emotionally charged. What did this process illuminate for you regarding systemic racism? How did it make you feel?
• Have you ever felt like you were judged based on some part of yourself that you cannot control?
• How did Ruth’s statement on the stand make you feel in terms of justice and dignity? What other moments in the text made you feel connected to Ruth?
• Have you ever experienced or witnessed acts of racism? What might you say to someone behaving in a racist way if you were present?

3. Societal and Cultural Context 

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

• Consider the backdrop of 1976 America against present-day America. How has rhetoric around racism changed? Could you see this case going to trial in America today?
• In the novel, the Connecticut setting appears outwardly progressive but is ultimately revealed to harbor deep-seated racism. Does this parallel the dynamics of outwardly progressive states today?
• One of the core ideas of the book is white allyship. What is the role of allyship in the movements toward equality?

4. Literary Analysis

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

• How does this narrative structure impact the way the story unfolds? Do you think multiple perspectives help explore the complexities of racism and privilege?
• Turk is an openly racist white supremacist at the novel’s beginning. What are your thoughts on his character arc? Do you believe his transformation is realistic or forced?
• How do Ruth, Turk, and Kennedy’s experiences with identity shape their actions and beliefs?
• The book’s title comes from a quote by Martin Luther King Jr. What does this quote symbolize in the context of Ruth’s story and her actions?

5. Creative Engagement 

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

• If you were to adapt this book into a movie, who would you cast as Ruth, Kennedy, and Turk?
• Create a soundtrack for the trial, considering each of its phases. Pay particular attention to the music you would play before and after the verdict.

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