- If you’re part of the hearing community, how much did you know about the Deaf community and culture prior to reading this novel? What are some key aspects that you learned?
- For those part of the Deaf community, what was your overall impression of how the community was presented in the novel?
- Why was True Biz the right title for this story?
- Out of the three main storylines—Charlie, Austin and February—which one were you most engaged with? Who do you think had the weakest storyline?
- Why do you think Charlie’s parents, especially her mother, were so insistent on the cochlear implant? How would have Charlie’s upbringing been different if she also could have learned ASL?
- February is the child of Deaf adults—why did she decide to work with Deaf students?
- What was behind the marriage issues between her and Mel?
- Austin has it all—until it initially appears his sister is born hearing. What type of impact did this have on Austin and his relationship with his dad?
- When more tests are done, it shows that his sister is hard of hearing and his parents, especially his father, are considering getting her a cochlear implant, which horrifies Austin. Let’s talk about the debate surrounding cochlear implants. Do you think his parents will still go through with getting one for his sister?
- How did Charlie change from when we met her to the end of the novel?
- The story is left open ended in many ways—what do you think happens next for Charlie, Austin and February? Will the school close for good?
- What are some of the key themes you picked up on? Did you highlight any sections of the novel (such as quotes or certain events)?
- Why do you think ASL is not taught more in schools? Do you know ASL or have an interest in learning the language?
True Biz by Sara Novic
More discussion at bookclubchat.com. These questions contain major spoilers.