Hell Followed with Us

What does the editor of the novel mean when they call it “unapologetic”? The writer says the novel began “as a fit of rage.” Discuss the rage. Define allegory. Debate whether this novel could be considered an allegory.

Define cult. How are cults formed? The novel is set in the future after a fundamentalist cult has destroyed the world’s population of nonbelievers. Draw a parallel between the cult in the book to religious cults in our society. Debate whether this novel is cautionary.

Describe New Nazareth. Benji arrived at New Nazareth at age eleven when his mother was offered a high position in the church. How does she sacrifice her family for her religious beliefs? Discuss the following symbolism: the flood, the virus, Angels, Seraph, and monster. How are they a paradox to traditional religious beliefs? Benji describes the Angels as terrorists. Cite evidence that his description is true. What is Benji’s view of prayer? Explain what Benji means at the end of the novel when is describes New Nazareth as “the mouth of hell.” DISCUSSION QUESTIONS Guide created by Pat Scales, retired school librarian and independent consultant, Greenville, South Carolina. PeachtreeBooks.com

Describe Benji and Theo’s relationship. Why were they engaged at such a young age? Explain: “He (Theo) just believed so much. In the church, in the Angels, in Seraph, in me, because they were all the same thing, really." (p. 63) Why does Nick send Benji back to Reformation Faith Evangelical Church? How is Benji confused when he sees Theo again? What does he still love about Theo? Describe Benji’s reunion with his mom. The church attempts to move forward with Theo and Benji’s marriage. What gives Benji the courage to refuse?

Brother Hutch kills Benji’s dad. Benji believes that his dad died for him because he loved him. Explain his mission to make New Nazareth pay for murdering his dad. How does he accomplish his goal? Debate whether revenge is a good way to solve an issue or a crime. How does joining the Watch make it possible for Benji to complete his mission?

How does Benji have to leave New Nazareth to discover who he is as a person? Explain how he ends up in the ALC. How might Benji describe the community? Discuss Benji’s reaction when Nick refers to him as “it.” Why does he expect better from Nick? At what point does Nick acknowledge his mistake? How does Nick plot Benji’s permanent escape from New Nazareth? Nick and Erin invite Benji to become an Angel killer. At what point does he accept their offer? Debate whether he has second thoughts.

What is Benji’s definition of “good”? How does his idea of “good” change when he takes up residence at the LGBTQ+ Center (ALC)? He says, “Every person (ALC) is someone I’ve been taught at hate since I first arrived at New Nazareth.” (p. 53) Draw a parallel to groups in current society that promote racism and homophobia.

Benji never really belonged in New Nazareth. Discuss how his father understood Benji’s need to escape and find a place where he could feel that he belongs? Benji testifies before the community and reveals everything about his past and his true identity. Debate whether this is a turning point for him.

Discuss the Bible verses at the beginning of each chapter. Draw a connection between the verse and what happens in the chapter.