Absolution

1. General Impressions 

Objective: Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• What are your overall impressions of Charlene and Tricia in Absolution? Did you find that you relate to one character more than the other, or did you find similarities to and differences from both characters?
• How does this book differ from other narratives about women's roles in the Vietnam War? Does it take more accountability or less than other Vietnam narratives you have read, like Kristin Hannah's The Women?
• Consider the book Atonement by Ian McEwan. Broadly, how do both books present seeking forgiveness by narrative means? How are they similar in their approach or message? How are they different?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

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

• Have you ever questioned the authenticity of or motivations for your participation in a humanitarian event or activity? If you consider these aspects of your humanitarian work now, was there any part of you that was motivated by aspects other than the cause you wanted to help?
• How did the critical nature of the friendship between Charlene and Tricia impact you? How does their relationship reflect or contrast with your relationships with women? 
• Which moments in the text made you feel tense or upset? Consider the novel’s core idea of tension surrounding events that people feel guilty about.