The Light of Luna Park

What did you think of how Stella's grief over her mother's passing was portrayed in the novel? If you've experienced grief, did you feel Stella's emotions mirrored yours, or were they different?

What were your feelings toward Stella's husband, Jack, in the beginning of the novel? What about at the end? Do you feel he is good husband?

In Chapter 7, when Althea views one of the circus acts at Coney Island featuring children and adults with deformities, she tells a woman, "The whole thing feels exploitative." The woman counters this by saying, "Way I see things, the circus is a haven for people like that." Discuss these differing opinions and your own in relation to this conversation.

Which character was your favorite, and why?

The Light of Luna Park calls into question how far someone would go to save another. Do you think Althea ultimately made the right decision for Stella? For herself? Why or why not?

How do you think Althea and Stella are similar? How are they different?

Much of the information regarding Luna Park and Dr. Couney-the "Incubator Doctor”—is rooted in fact. Which piece of information were you most surprised to learn?

Do you think Stella handled her professional dilemma well in the beginning of the novel? If you were in her place, how do you think you would have reacted?

How did you feel about Althea and Charlie's relationship? Were you satisfied with how it ended up?

Do you think Dr. Couney's lies or omissions were justified by his motivations?