What Strange Paradise

Amir is the book’s central character, but What Strange Paradise includes a wide range of voices – people from different places with different personal histories. Did a particular voice stand out to you the most? How come? What was the role of that voice in the story?

Why do you think that El Akkad chose to make 2 children – Vänna and Amir – the protagonists? What does this focus on children add to the story, versus if the main characters were adults?

The book’s chapters alternate between ‘Before’ and ‘After.’ Did you like this? Why do you think El Akkad used this format?

What stood out to you the most from the ‘Before’ chapters — particularly from the chapters set on the boat? For example, a specific character, something someone said, a general theme. How come?

El Akkad said that he writes about what makes him angry, and that this book came from a place of anger. Did you sense his anger throughout the book? Did you sense any other emotions?

El Akkad also said that “the act of writing the story is hope.” Did you find the book hopeful? In what ways?

El Akkad says that the book is a “repurposed fairy tale” that’s based on the story of Peter Pan (but also that “a lot of the stuff is beneath the surface”). Did you notice this? What are some similarities between this story and a classic “fairy tale”?

El Akkad is also a journalist, having reported around the world from locations such as Afghanistan and Guantánamo Bay. How do you think that his experience influenced his writing?

What does this book have to say about the migrant crisis in Europe? What did you learn? How does it compare to what you might’ve heard about it previously?

In a CBC article, What Strange Paradise is said to ask the questions “How did we get here?” and “What are we going to do about it?” Did the book provide any answers for you?

What is your interpretation of the ending? What were your initial thoughts after reading it? Do you think it was satisfactory?

What do you think is the significance of the title, What Strange Paradise?

What will stick with you the most from What Strange Paradise?