Bones

Bones is the tragicomic, roller coaster story of Robyn Shumer’s lifelong battle with—and triumph over—a crippling eating disorder. It’s an honest, first-person account that takes the reader inside the emotional, mental, physical, and social world of an anorexic from childhood to adulthood, through four decades of a changing society whose message to girls and women remained stubbornly the same: “thinner is the winner.”

With humor, Shumer paints a memoir of self-hatred, self-love, loss, anger, determination, and acceptance that is relatable to anyone who has suffered the ramifications of our food-and-body-obsessed culture.

Sprinkled with wisdom from experts, this personal diary will both engage and inform the reader. Shumer’s goal is to help those who suffer from anorexia, and their loved ones, too. She hopes to show the world that mental illness doesn’t define us, or prevent us from living successful, fulfilling lives. Bones is a living example of fearlessly sharing the stories that shape us.

This discussion guide was shared and sponsored in partnership with DartFrog Books.

Book club questions for Bones by Natasha Stoynoff and Robyn Shumer

Use these discussion questions to guide your next book club meeting.

How did the author's personal experience with an eating disorder impact your understanding of this issue? Did it challenge any preconceptions you may have had?

The memoir delves into the complexities of family dynamics, particularly the relationship between the author and her mother. How did you perceive their relationship, and how did it evolve throughout the book?

Food plays a significant role in the memoir, serving as both a comfort and a source of distress for the author. How does the author's relationship with food evolve over the course of the narrative? Did it resonate with any of your own experiences or perceptions?

Discuss the theme of female empowerment in the memoir. How does the author reclaim her power and autonomy throughout her journey? Are there specific moments that stood out to you?

The author explores the theme of finding one's voice, both metaphorically and literally. How does she navigate the process of finding and asserting her identity? Were there moments when you found yourself rooting for her?

Reflect on the author's decision to share her story with the world. What do you think motivated her to do so? How does her memoir contribute to broader conversations about mental health and body image?

The memoir touches on the stigma and misconceptions surrounding eating disorders. How does the author challenge these stereotypes through her storytelling? Do you think her narrative has the potential to change perceptions?

Discuss the writing style and structure of the memoir. How did the author's use of language and narrative techniques enhance your reading experience?

Many memoirs involve a degree of vulnerability and self-exposure. How did you respond to the author's willingness to share her most intimate struggles and emotions? Did it deepen your connection to the story?

What was the overarching message or takeaway of the memoir. What insights or lessons did you gain from reading this book? How has it impacted your perspective on issues related to food, family, and self-discovery?

Bones Book Club Questions PDF

Click here for a printable PDF of the Bones discussion questions