Las Crosses 

Did you like the book Las Crosses? Why or why not? 

Are there any aspects of the book that you wish were different? 

Do you feel connected to any of the characters? Who and why?

Apple contrasts two cultures. Where did you feel tension between identity and assimilation?

Which passage would you read aloud to friends and why?

How might this memoir be different if told by someone of another generation or background?

Can you guess the meaning of the title, "Las Crosses?" It is about many types of "crosses." How many can you identify? (hint: the answer is at AppleAnBooks.com, and maybe the sales pages where the book is sold)

If you know or find out the meaning of the title, do you think the title is appropriate for the book? Why or why not?

After reading, what would you ask Apple if you could invite her to your meeting?

What have you learned about life in China from this book? Is it consistent with what you already know? Are there any discrepancies?

How did the scenes of food, music, and movies shape your view of Apple as a character?

What small American detail in your reading surprised you most, and why?

How do moments of humor open doors to harder topics in the book? Give a passage that made you laugh and then think.

What does the used Pontiac represent in the story?

The book covers many moments and events during the eight months that were important in shaping Apple’s new life. Which moments most influenced the development of Apple’s character and temperament? 

Which characters mentioned in the book played significant roles in Apple’s life? Why? In what ways do you relate to these characters?

Is there a historical or cultural background you wish to know to understand Apple and her experience better during these eight months?

Does the story help you understand some of the challenges immigrants face in a new land? Does the story remind you of some immigrants you knew or heard of who experienced situations similar to or even more difficult than the ones in the book?

What makes this book engaging? Are there places you felt lost or needed more information? Was this because of the writing, or because of your unfamiliarity with what was happening in China during that period?

The structure of this memoir is largely chronological. Is this effective at showing the ever-changing environments, Apple's observations and reflections, and the overall story of what happened during those months?

Memoirs are based on memories that the author can recall. Did the events, feelings, and reflections seem realistic to you?