Study Questions & Essay Topics
Study Questions
1. During his
stay at the clinic, James hears a lot of cautionary advice and learns
a lot about how others deal with recovery from addiction. Which
types of advice resonate best with him, and why?
2. At a certain
point during his stay at the clinic, James feels capable of being
a source of strength for others. What events might have propelled
him into this role?
3. It has come
to light that
A Million Little Pieces is not entirely
a work of nonfiction. However, James Frey defended the choices he'd
made to embellish, fabricate, or change certain parts of the book
by saying that an “essential truth” still exists in his telling
of the story. Do you agree or disagree with Frey's assessment of
the situation? Do you think that there is an “essential truth” to
the book?
Suggested Essay Topics
1. James frequently turns to
bravado or isolates himself when dealing with hard times at the
clinic. What other coping mechanisms does he use? Which of these
seems most effective?
2. How does James's relationship
with Lilly differ from his relationship with the Girl with the Arctic
Eyes? How does each relationship relate to each part of his life?
3. Frey's writing style has been
called “gritty,” “raw,” and labeled as “stream of consciousness.”
What does this style say about his state of mind during his stay
at the clinic? Is it an effective vehicle for his thoughts?
4. How does James's relationship
with his family change throughout the course of his stay at the
clinic? In what ways does James show the changes? Why is this change
important to James's recovery?
5. What role does Leonard play
in James's recovery? What does Leonard stand to gain from making
friends with James? What is the significance of Leonard accepting
James as a son?
