Half His Age

Half His Age is narrated in the first person, from Waldo's point of view. What impact does this have on your experience of the story? What did you think of Waldo's voice?

McCurdy's writing style is simple and direct rather than flowery. Did you like this style? Do you think it suited the subject material?

There are some graphic scenes in the novel. Did they feel necessary to you? Did they make you feel uncomfortable? What did they contribute and why do you think the author included them?

Talk about the protagonist, Waldo. What did you think of her and of her many flaws and issues? Were annoyed by her selfishness, or did you want to give her a hug (or both)?

Looking back at your own teenage years, could you relate to Waldo at all? What aspects of her or her story resonated with you the most?

Discuss how Mr. Korgy's true character (let's be real, as a pathetic loser) is gradually revealed over the course of the novel. What are the moments of realization for Waldo and for you as the reader?

What message do you think McCurdy is trying to share about over-consumption?

Were you surprised that Waldo's mother went back to Tony in the end? Or just disappointed?

Let's discuss the ending for Waldo! Did you enjoy how it referenced the one good lesson from her mom? Or did it feel anticlimactic? Abrupt? Were you hoping for more resolution?

This is McCurdy's debut novel. Had you read her memoir, I'm Glad My Mom Died? Did you trace any throughlines between the books? What would you like to see McCurdy write next, and will you pick it up?