The Story of Arthur Truluv

Maddy is bullied by her peers, an experience that many young people can relate to. She finds little support or recourse for stopping it and, as a result, regularly skips school to escape it. Who could or should be held responsible for Maddy’s situation? What adults or systems bear responsibility for the continued bullying and lack of intervention?

A talented photographer, Maddy is artistic and enjoys poetry. What function does this interest serve in the novel?

Berg organized the novel without chapters; what is the impact of this choice and how does it affect your reading of the novel?

While Arthur often feels irritated by Lucille, his heart also accelerates at the thought of her. Do you think there was a chance of a romantic relationship between Arthur and Lucille before Frank’s reappearance in Lucille’s life, or were the two destined to only be friends?

How does Maddy’s pregnancy change her life? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

How does Arthur’s decision to allow Lucille to move into his house affect Maddy? What are the dynamics of this non-traditional family unit?

Despite their difficult relationship, Maddy finds compassion for her father after their Thanksgiving together. What was the catalyst for this evolution, and can it be sustained in the future?

Arthur’s health is failing toward the novel’s conclusion, but he doesn’t seek medical treatment. Why do you think that is? Support your response with evidence from the text.