Jincy Willett’s The Writing Class: Literature Study
The following is a list of small- or large-group discussion prompts related to the novel The Writing Class by Jincy Willett.
The Book
Would you consider The Writing Class a mystery novel? Why or why not?
Discuss the significance of hands and spiders.
Amy relates her belief that San Diegan drivers tailgate to cure their sense of loneliness. What do this statement and her other setting-related details tell you about Willett’s opinion of her home town? Why do you think Willett set the novel in San Diego?
Amy admits that she views other people almost as stereotypes, and until she learns something surprising about another character, her representation of the character is a stereotype. How does Amy come across as a stereotype, and what surprising information does she reveal to deepen her character?
Carla calls her home the Birdhouse. Amy wonders why until she sees the shape of the house. Why else would Carla use this name?
How does the description of Amy’s home reflect Amy’s life? Consider how infrequently she leaves her house.
What is the significance of Amy’s marriages?
Writing
Amy says that all stories are autobiographical and that all writers are liars. Do you see evidence of this advice in the novel?
What advice would Amy give to Willett?
What do you think caused Amy’s writer’s block, and what about her experience with the Sniper unblocked her by the end?
Discuss Amy’s lists, especially those on her blog. Do you think she really believed nobody would find her blog?
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