When you have finished reading Debra Lee Won’t Break, please take a few minutes to think about the following questions and discuss your answers with your book club.
In chapter one, Deb receives a call that changes the trajectory of her life. Have you ever had your plans derailed by a single phone call?
In chapter two, Deb is reluctant to reunite with her old friend Caroline. Why, then, do you think Deb accepts Caroline’s invitation to dinner?
Betty loses a significant amount of money when, like many vulnerable people, she falls for a gift card scam. Yet she continues to answer the phone, despite Deb’s pleas. Have you or someone you know ever fallen for a scam? What would you have done to help protect Betty?
Early in the book, Caroline and Robbie discuss which is worse, a long, slow decline (chronic illness) or something that kills you (terminal illness). How does this theme play out in the rest of the novel?
Have you ever had a friend like Caroline? Are you still friends?
Calvin repeatedly tells Deb to take the time she needs to do her best work. In what way does this become a trap for Deb? Do you blame Deb for the way she handles her work challenges?
When Paula first tells Deb she’s worried the ride is too strenuous for her, mother and daughter make a deal: Deb will drop out if her health takes a downward turn. What does Deb do when Paula reminds her of this deal? Do you agree or disagree with Deb’s decision?
Molly and Deb have a contentious relationship working together at Sparky’s Support Dogs. How would you have handled Molly’s bad behavior?
It quickly becomes clear that Deb had a bad experience with a young man while a teenager. How common do you think Deb’s scenario is?
Near the end of the book, Caroline gives a name to what happened to Deb. Do you agree or disagree with the label Caroline uses? Why or why not?
Katherine Pickett 