Printable Book Club Questions for Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

The novel features a SNL-like sketch show. Do you watch SNL? What did you think about the parts dedicated to making the show?
What is your overall impression of Sally? Why was comedy writing the right path for her?
What compelled her to write the Danny Horst Rule? What message was she trying to convey? Do you agree with her viewpoints?
Appearances are covered quite a bit in the story. Why do you think there’s so much pressure on women to have the perfect appearance?
Let’s talk about the first meeting between Sally and Noah. What were your main takeaways?
After Noah’s episode, the cast and crew go out to celebrate. Sally and Noah talk and have an easy rapport, which panics Sally and she becomes a bit mean and pushes him away. This happens a couple times throughout the novel. Why do you think Sally acted this way to Noah? What was she afraid of?
The story moves forward a couple years and it’s the beginning of the pandemic with everyone staying at home. Sally receives an email from Noah out of the blue and they restart their banter but also get to know each other more. Why was email the best way from them to connect? What did you learn about the two of them through their email exchanges?
Would they have reconnected if not for the pandemic?
Ignoring her fear of rejection, Sally decides to take Noah up on his offer and come visit him in LA. Let’s discuss their first in-person reunion since the show.
Despite public perception and even their own initial hesitations, what is behind Sally and Noah’s strong connection? What do they bring out in each other?
The two eventually get caught by photographers and both are distraught but for seemingly different reasons. However, looks do come up and Noah acknowledges that Sally isn’t the most beautiful person he’s ever seen but she offers so much more than just looks. Curious to hear your thoughts on this. Was he simply being honest? How would you have reacted if you were Sally?
Eventually, Sally decides to leave the show behind and marry Noah. She also starts her screenwriting career. Let’s discuss their love story overall. Do you feel they are a good match? Did you like the ending?
Who would you cast for the leads if they make a film or TV adaptation?