Printable: Book Club Questions for Real Americans by Rachel Khong

What does the book title, Real Americans, mean in relation to the entire story?
The story starts with a mini prologue when May, Lily’s mother and Nick’s grandmother, consumes an ancient lotus seed, which has rippling effects for the entire family. Why was important to include this scene in the novel? What does it say about May’s character when she decided to consume the seed instead of study it?
What were your initial impressions of Lily during the section dedicated to her romance with Matthew? Why were her and Matthew drawn to each other?
Lily’s mother did not hide her unhappiness about the marriage between Lily and Matthew. When did it become apparent there was more to the story there?
We eventually learn that Otto, Matthew’s father, and May experimented on their own children with the idea of changing their futures for the better. Why did May and Otto feel compelled to embark on this? And how did it change both of their families for good?
Lily is horrified when she finds out the truth and leaves behind her mother for good. How would you have reacted if you were Lily? Why didn’t Matthew join Lily and Nick?
We then jump to Nick’s timeline where’s he’s a somewhat lost 15-year-old. Lily lied to him about several key facts about his family. Let’s talk about the impact of Lily’s lies on Nick.
Eventually Nick does reconnect with Matthew and is rather taken in with Matthew’s world. What did you think about the dynamic between Matthew and Nick?
Nick looks almost like a carbon copy of Matthew. But regarding his personality and outlook on life, do you feel he was more similar with Lily or Matthew?
Matthew has another son and he is an addict and trying everything to get his father’s attention. Eventually he overdoses and dies right in front of Nick. How did this traumatic experience change his perception of Matthew and that side of the family?
The third section is dedicated to May, who tracks down Nick in her 80s and eventually tells him the truth about everything. What were your thoughts as you read all the reveals by May? Did it make her more sympathetic as a character? Why or why not?
We learn Nick is involved with a start up that is also focused on changing one’s future and life expectancy. Why is this family so focused on changing genetics? What are they trying to avoid and also change?
What did you think about the ending and Lily finally reuniting with May?
What happens next for Nick, Lily and Matthew going forward?