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46 pages 1 hour read

Taylor Jenkins Reid

Maybe in Another Life

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2015

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Essay Topics

1.

Write an essay in which you consider the structure of the book. How do the alternating chapters depicting two separate storylines help to strengthen the novel’s themes?

2.

Gabby and Hannah’s relationship is central to the novel. While the two storylines depict varying outcomes for Hannah’s love life, Gabby remains the common denominator. Write an essay in which you consider the significance to this relationship and consider the impact that it has on each woman.

3.

Write an essay in which you consider the significance of the novel’s title. How does it strengthen or speak to the novel’s themes?

4.

Describe Reid’s narrative tone and writing style. In what ways does her distinctive style define the story’s characters, themes, and setting?

5.

Write an essay in which you explore the novel’s discussion of fate, particularly within the context of Hannah’s life (past, present, and future). What does the novel—and Hannah herself—suggest about the concept of fate?

6.

Hannah and Ethan have a long history together. Write an essay in which you analyze the development of this relationship throughout each storyline. Doe the fact that one storyline sees them married and the other sees them become friends change whether or not they are soul mates?

7.

In what ways does Hannah and Ethan’s relationship change (improve, worsen, etc.) throughout the novel?

8.

Hannah has a physically and emotionally distant relationship with her family. In what ways does Hannah’s relationship with her family impact her negatively throughout her adult life?

9.

Throughout the novel, Hannah refers to the importance of having a support system, be it comprised of family or not. Who serves as Hannah’s support system, and in what ways do they provide effective support?

10.

Hannah’s pregnancy is a major crisis point in both timelines. Write an essay in which you consider the ways in which Hannah is at once both prepared and unprepared to become a mother. What is the effect of her losing the baby in one timeline and having it in the other?

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