Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Why do you think Frank Alpine tries to right his wrongs by helping out at the Bober store?
- What is the meaning of Frank's vision of St. Francis and the flower at the close of the novel?
- Why does Frank's circumcision inspire him?
- Do you feel that Frank, instead of staying at the store, should have left the neighborhood after sexually assaulting Helen?
- What does Helen like about the novels she recommends to Frank?
- What are Ida's dreams?
- Is Morris capable of being a better grocer? Why or why not?
- How did your impression of the characters change over the course of the novel?
- What's up with Ward?
- If The Assistant were to be adapted into a movie, who could you cast?