I’m happy to provide the following questions for teachers, book clubs, and librarians, to spark a discussion. Please note that questions may contain spoilers.
- Sonia is a daydreamer, but a lot of her actions are rooted in reality and practicality. Can you reconcile these two sides of her?
- The title of the book is a clear nod to the 90s classic, While You Were Sleeping. Did you catch any other pop culture inspiration in the book?
- Sonia loves cosplay. What do you think it is about the hobby that appeals to her?
- How do you feel about Sonia’s sister, Kareena? Did your feelings change from the beginning of the book versus the end?
- Which Cooper brother is the better love interest for Sonia?
- Sonia doesn’t seem to hate her body, but she does struggle with it at times. How do you feel about Sonia’s body image? How does her view of herself intersect with her cosplay hobby?
- Sonia struggles a lot with shame over being “whitewashed” and a feeling that she is appropriating her own culture. What does that word mean? Is she right to feel this way? Who can decide if she is Indian-American enough?
- How do you feel about Candice? Did your feelings change over the course of the book?
- How does Hana fit into Sonia’s life? What was the pivotal moment they went from uneasy coworkers to friends?
- Do you understand why Sonia and Kareena want to stay in America, even though their mother is no longer there?
- How do you feel about Sonia’s home life?
- Sonia feels some guilt over Pooja’s attention. Do you understand why?
- What is the overall message of the book?
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