- How does the theme of empowered and courageous women in Vienna, London, and New York differ from the historical narrative you had in mind before you read this book?
- What are all the sources of Irma’s strength? Does Irma show qualities as a woman that are distinct or undervalued?
- What role does education play in Irma’s life?
- What do you think of the author’s conclusion that Irma’s pride was an asset? Do you think pride can be transformative?
- To what extent do you see Jewish values in this narrative? What do you think of the author’s assertion that her family history is adaptation?
- Do you think of languages as a figurative passport in life? Discuss.
- Consider Grandma Julie and Grandma Irma. Do you see a distinct role for grandparents in building family narratives?
- Did you learn anything new or surprising about WWII history? Zionism? Holocaust? How does that change any pre-existing perspective you had?
- If you like Paul were expelled from school at 14 — and all your non-Jewish classmates had fought for Hitler — what would it take for you to be open to reconciliation?
- Did you find anything unexpected or familiar in the original Zionist manifesto’s statement that immigration is a vicious circle: that a large influx of foreigners is universally disruptive. Are there implications for now?
- Jakob as a Zionist understood the threat of anti-Semitism but stood his ground. Many wonder why Jews didn’t leave Europe sooner – why they underestimated Hitler. What do you think of Jakob’s stance? Considering Austria in the 1930s, what conditions would make you decide to leave your homeland? Could a change in leadership make you emigrate?
- After Paul died, the author found unexplained diamond earring in his drawer. Do you have such heirlooms with an element of mystery?