This Is Where I Leave You

Discuss the dynamics of the Foxman family, taking into account Judd’s assessment that they deflect instead of dealing with emotion. How do their familial relationships change over the course of the novel, if at all? How do lingering resentments get resolved, and what does this say about the novel’s theme of Healing Betrayal Through Forgiveness?

Discuss the roles of fidelity and adultery as conflicts in the novel, and their impacts on selected characters. Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in the novel to argue what the novel suggests makes a love relationship successful, and what can damage or destroy it.

Discuss the various types of masculinity that are portrayed in the novel. Mort Foxman, Paul, Phillip, and Judd all exhibit their own sort of masculinity, as does Wade, whom Judd refers to as an “alpha male.” What is Jonathan Tropper saying about men and masculinity through their relationships, actions, sexual habits, and violence?