Printable Book Club Questions for Lady Clementine by Marie Benedict

The book starts off right before the wedding of Clementine and Winston. Clementine thinks to herself that she “always feels different.” What do you think she meant by that?
Did you know much about Clementine Churchill prior to reading the novel? What were some of the interesting aspects that you learned about her from the book?
It’s very apparent during the courtship of Winston and Clementine was that he was quite enamored with her intelligence and political knowledge. Why do you think they became such a good fit? Do you think that there truly was love there or was it more of a political alliance?
On page 46, a key scene happened—this is when a woman tries to shove Winston onto an ongoing train but that Clementine saves him at the last minute. So apparently this really did happen but let’s also discuss the symbolism of Clementine saving Winston then and in the future. Would Winston Churchill be who he was without Clementine at his side?
Motherhood does not come easily for Clementine and she admits she feels she lacks the material instinct for it. On page 114, she thinks to herself “what sort of mother have I become? Is it the war and Winston that have made me so remote? Or is it an unfortunate consequence of my bringing? A failing in my nature?” Let’s discuss this—do you think any of this is true? Do sacrifices have to be made in order at home in order to be fully invested in politics?
Her son Randolph tells his mother Clementine that “your whole existence focuses upon him and his requirements. He demands all of you, and there is no space left for your children to have needs.” A lot of blame for how the children turn out seems to be on Clementine but Winston was just as absent as a father. And it also seems like he couldn’t have carried on his duties without Clementine. What do you think about this blame on Clementine as opposed to Winston?
There’s lots of political details and a behind-the-scenes look at the decision making—especially with regards to WWII. What did you think about all the historical focused sections? Did you learn anything new from it?
The only time that it seems Clementine truly relaxes is when she goes on the cruise and spends time with art expert Terence Philip who she develops a crush for, however, it’s unrequited. What were your thoughts on this—was this the only time Clementine got to be herself? How did this experience change Clementine for good?
What did you think about the scenes between Clementine and Eleanor Roosevelt? In what ways were their lives pretty parallel and similar?
What was your overall impression of Clementine and her role in history?