The Poppy War

Discuss the role of violence in the text. Why are the war scenes depicted so graphically? What purpose does such detailed violence serve?

Why is there such an abrupt shift in setting around the book’s midway point? What are the consequences of the sudden dissolution of Sinegard Academy?

In the conflict between the Speerlies, the Nikara, and the Mugenese, are there clear-cut good guys and bad guys? What is the purpose of moral ambiguity in stories of war?

What role do addiction and psychedelics play in Nikara society? What nuance is given to drug use and why?

Compare some of the relationships Rin has with the men in her life. What roles do Jiang and Altan play? How do Nezha and Kitay affect Rin’s character development?

What is the role of national and cultural stories? Why do the Nikara and the Mugenese perpetuate certain stories about themselves and each other? How do these stories affect the populace?

Discuss how dehumanization works in wartime. Which characters dehumanize others, and how do they do so? What are the consequences of such beliefs, if any?

How do racism, colorism, and classism interconnect in Nikara society? Provide examples from the text.