Stone Mattress: Nine Tales(83)

Stone Mattress Reading Group Discussion Guide





Nine Questions for Nine Stories





1. Alphinland: Discuss the contrasts between the ice storm, a force of nature that Constance cannot control, and Alphinland, the elaborately imagined world where Constance is in complete control. Now that Ewan has entered Alphinland, what do you think Constance will do next?

2. Revenant: “Revenant” is defined as “one that returns after death or a long absence.” Is Gavin returning to Constance or is Constance returning to Gavin?

3. Dark Lady: Now that the ill will between Constance and Jorrie has been resolved, will Jorrie need to hide behind her bronze mineral powder mask less … or more?

4. Lusus Naturae: “Freaks of nature” come in all shapes and sizes. The next time you encounter someone who does not conform to traditional notions of beauty, will your instinct be to attack, run, or look a little closer?

5. The Freeze-Dried Groom: Which parts of the bride’s story do you think are true and which do you think are false?

6. I Dream of Zenia with the Bright Red Teeth: “Not that there’s any percentage in not forgiving a person who’s no longer alive.” Do you agree or disagree?

7. The Dead Hand Loves You: When Irena and Jack join hands, a new contract is being written. What are the terms?

8. Stone Mattress: It’s no accident that Verna’s choice of weapon is as old as revenge itself. But will the accident she’s so carefully arranged give her the closure she’s looking for?

9. Torching the Dusties: Charles Bonnet syndrome is a real condition that can affect people with partial or severe blindness. People who suffer from the syndrome can experience vivid hallucinations. Do you think the attack on Ambrosia Manor is real?



BONUS QUESTION: There are several recurring themes throughout the stories: the male/female dynamic, money, aging, sex, and death. Which theme (or themes) resonated with you and why?