- The book starts off with a brief glimpse into Mina and Margot’s complicated relationship, which we learn more about as the book goes on. What was your opinion on their relationship? Why do you think it was so complicated?
- Margot drives to LA from Seattle with her friend Miguel. She hasn’t heard from her mom in two weeks. When Margot goes to her mom’s apartment, she finds her mother is dead. Let’s talk about our thoughts as we read this scene.
- While the police believe it’s an accident, Margot has her doubts. She takes it upon herself to learn about what happened to her mother. What would you have done if you were Margot?
- We also read the story from Mina’s perspective of coming to the U.S. in the late 1980s from South Korea. Why did Mina decide to leave everything behind and come to the U.S.?
- This story covers the realities of being an immigrant in America—and oftentimes, it’s so difficult. Did you learn anything from this story or could you even relate it to somewhat to your own family’s experience?
- What did you think about Margot’s journey in finding out what happened to Mina? How did it help Margot understand her mother better?
- Why do you think Margot kept saying that she couldn’t stay in LA near her mother (prior to her death)? Do you think she’ll remain in LA going forward?
- Let’s talk about Mina’s relationship with Chang-hee Kim. Why did Mina never tell Margot the truth about her father?
- The main thread of the story is what happened to Mina. Did you suspect that someone, like Mr. Park, had killed Mina? What was your reaction when it turned out to be an accident by Mrs. Baek?
- As Margot uncovered the tragic secrets of her mom and also Mrs. Baek—what did it show her about the lack of options and choices available for these immigrant women?
- How did Margot’s opinion of her mother change from the beginning of the story to the end?
- Overall, were you satisfied with the ending of the story? Why or why not? Do you think she’ll see her grandmother one day?
The Last Story of Mina Lee by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
More discussion at bookclubchat.com. These questions contain major spoilers.