Printable Book Club Questions for The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

Have you read The Help? How did this one compare?
Why was The Calamity Club the right name for this novel?
The story is lengthy at over 600 pages. Did the length bother you, or were you fine with it?
While this is an ensemble cast, we follow the perspectives of Birdie and Meg. Why was it important for us to read their thoughts and feelings?
Which character were you most engaged with, and on a similar note, which one do you think you are most like?
Let’s discuss the differences between Birdie and Frances.
This novel features plenty of historical detail from the clothes to the food of that era, but also horrific elements, including the forced sterilization. What were some of the more surprising details? Did you learn something new from the story?
Garnett is the head of the Lafayette County Orphan Asylum and is especially cruel to Meg, separates her from the other children, and makes her live in unsanitary conditions. We also learn she is on a crusade against Charlie and helps enable Charlie’s forced sterilization. This all stems from her husband having an affair with Charlie and being Meg’s real father. What are your thoughts on Garnett as the villain?
Meg’s mother, Charlie, comes into the picture, and Birdie has reservations but does trust her. Would you have trusted Charlie right away?
When Charlie suggested to Mrs. Tartt that they open a paid dance club, did you know she was really talking about a brothel?
Why did Birdie go along with it? What would you have done if you were Birdie?
Meg is eventually adopted, but it’s not smooth sailing. While the family is rich, Lucille is a cruel alcoholic, while Tom is a recovering one who is trying to find his own way by writing a novel. Tom develops a bond with Meg. What was your impression of these sections? How will it all impact Meg going forward?
What did you think of Birdie’s relationship with Jack?
Eventually, Frances and Mrs. Tartt return home, and they are shocked to find out the truth about the dance club. But their tune changes when they realize how much money they made. Were you surprised Mrs. Tartt was seemingly ok with it? What does that say about the desperation of the times then?
The story ends with Charlie rescuing Meg and taking her far from Oxford; Birdie will return to Oxford for Jake and to start a business; it seems Frances will stay with Rory, despite it all. Were you satisfied with the ending, or did you want more closure?
On that same note, what happens next for all the main characters?
What were some of the key themes? How did the author balance the light with the darker elements of this time period?