The 13th Gift

What were your general impressions of this book?

This memoir tells the story of the author’s walk through grief at Christmas time. Have you had any experiences over the holidays with grief? Did your experience resonate with hers? Why or why not?

Would you recommend this book for someone grieving during the holidays? Why or why not?

Random Acts of Kindness enter the author’s life and transform the Christmas experience for both her and the children. How did this affect them? Have you ever had any experiences such as this, either giving or receiving? Explain.

Each person responds to grief in different ways. Consider how Joanne and her three children responded to the loss of their husband/father. Who did you most identify with and why?

The family’s Christmas decorations played a role in the story. What do you remember and enjoy about their decorations? How do your holiday and/or Christmas decorations play a role in your holiday celebrations?

Did this book inspire you to conduct random acts of kindness during the holidays? If so, what are your plans?

In what ways, if any, will this book change your life or perspective?