Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture

1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• What was your initial impression of Hillbilly Elegy? Did it surprise you, or did it meet your expectations?
• How does this memoir alter your perception of J.D. Vance, if at all?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Are there any elements of Appalachian culture that are similar to where you live? Or if you reside near the book’s setting, did you connect with Vance’s representation of it?
• The family dynamic that Vance depicts is complex and often chaotic, but he describes his relatives as fiercely loyal to one another. Do you relate to this portrayal of family? How does it compare to your own?
• Was there any specific character in the book that you related to most? Why?
• The choice to leave family for personal wellbeing or financial stability runs through the text, as Vance often discusses the Appalachian diaspora. Have you or has someone close to you had to move away from home? What was the primary reason?

3. Societal and Cultural Context

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.