The Book of Form and Emptiness

Read Borges’s short story “The Aleph” and discuss how it relates to the characters and themes of The Book of Form and Emptiness. What is the symbolism of Alice’s artist name being “the Aleph”?

The Book of Form and Emptiness is structurally complex, including different points of view, narrative styles, and direct address between the characters and text. What argument is Ruth Ozeki making about art, creation, and literature by employing such a complex narrative structure?

Discuss the library’s role in Benny and Annabelle’s lives before and after Kenji’s death. Why is the Bindery particularly important to Benny?

How does Benny’s crush on Alice contribute to his acceptance of Kenji’s passing? Does it hinder him from accepting the new reality of his family or help him heal?

How are materialism and consumerism discussed in the novel? Choose three scenes that present an argument on the nature of capitalistic society and its influence on people’s lives.

Discuss the significance of Alice’s snow globes and Slavoj’s poem “Earth.” How do these characters represent the social and ecological context of the novel?

What role does grief have in Benny’s perception of the voices of things? How does this compare or contrast with Aikon’s teachings on materialism in Tidy Magic?

The fridge magnets become a symbol of Kenji’s continued presence in the home for Annabelle. Do you believe that the magnets are being moved by Kenji? Why or why not? Discuss at least three instances in the novel that support or discount your theory.