Discussion Questions for Misfits Abroad
- This book introduces people in 66 vignettes. Who was your favorite character? Which one would you most like to meet?
- What was the most surprising or interesting story in this collection?
- What made the book especially readable for you?
- What is unique about the author’s voice or tone?
- Does the author treat her subjects fairly, avoiding stereotypes?
- Does reading about international cultures change your appreciation of the range of languages and cultures found in your own country? How so?
- Describe an instance in which misuse of a foreign language caused misunderstanding or embarrassment.
- The writer relates some difficulties, such as the theft of her passport. How should travelers put such experiences into perspective?
- What is the difference between touring and traveling?
- What’s the best age for spending a year abroad?
- What value is there in visiting historic sites and memorials of infamous war crimes?
- Does the writer express mixed emotions about leaving her hometown? What do you think of this range of reactions?
- In which ways does the author change her attitude concerning life overseas during the course of these short portrayals?
- How do the writer’s feelings about leaving home compare and contrast to her feelings about returning many months later?
- What are some situations, other than relocating, that can put stress on family relationships?
- How does traveling or moving make us reevaluate the importance of material possessions?
- What are some of the benefits and challenges faced by bilingual families?
- Do we tend to treat our international acquaintances differently than our other friends? How so?
- What are some positive ways to interact with people who have customs that are new to you?
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Discussion Questions for Misfits Further Abroad
- Which of the locations discussed in this book most intrigues you? Why?
- The vignettes in Misfits Further Abroad describe a range of cultural contexts. In which ways might your actions in such situations be similar? How might you react differently?
- Are the writer’s fears normal or out of proportion with the risks faced?
- What is unique about the author’s voice or tone?
- The author states that excursions can take visitors, not just to another place, but to another time. What does she mean by this?
- Does the writer treat her subjects fairly and objectively, avoiding stereotypes?
- To what extent would you be inclined to obey all the laws and customs of the places you visit?
- What are some positive ways to interact with people who have religious beliefs that do not align with yours?
- What was the most surprising or interesting custom portrayed in this book?
- What is your reaction to the manner of choosing marriage partners exemplified in some of these accounts?
- The book describes garments worn by people in some foreign settings. What is your perspective on these styles of dress?
- What value might there be in revisiting past wars?
- What’s the best age for spending a year abroad?
- What is the difference between touring and traveling?
- Does reading about international cultures change your appreciation of the range of languages and cultures found in your own country? How so?
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