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2. CS Richardson has called this book "a fable, a parable on the notions of love and loss and relationships, and how far you would go in the name of love." How does the tone of fable impact the way you receive the ideas contained in this book? Why do you think Richardson chose to tell this particular story with nuances of the fabulous?

3. The physical descriptions of Ambrose and Zipper are parallel in structure, with paragraphs devoted to their tastes in clothing, in music and literature, in food, and brief descriptions of their appearances and personalities. Why do you think Richardson chose to describe them in this way? Do you see other symmetries in the structure of this novel? What do they contribute to the experience of reading this book?

4. As "average" as everyone considers Ambrose to be, he has some exceptional qualities, including his ability to visualize history as though seeing through time. What does this instinct say about him, about his being and his desires? What does the revelation of his long-hidden list mean to Zipper?

5. Ambrose loves to walk, to experience his life through walking, referring to his favorite Paris route as his flânez and wearing a self-circumscribed path through his London neighbourhood. Does this give you any insight into Ambrose? Have you ever had a favorite flânez?

6. "Ambrose Zephyr liked what he liked and didn't like what he didn't like." Consider the ongoing debate Ambrose and Zipper have about the Rockeby Venus. What do you think of their perspectives on art? Have you ever liked anything without wishing to dissect your reasons? What does their debate say about their perspectives on life, and about their relationship?

7. What lessons does Ambrose carry with him from the life, and death, of his father?

8. Ambrose is dying from an illness that is cloaked in mystery in every aspect save its fatality. Why do you think Richardson chose to leave the illness unnamed and vague?

9. A camel utters with equanimity some advice in Ambrose's dream: "Why, you ask? There is no why, Master Zephyr. Life goes on. Death goes on. Love goes on. It is all as simple as that." Discuss Ambrose's dream. What does it reveal about the state of his mind and heart?

10. In chapter "Z," why did Ambrose leave the list in Zipper's book? Why that book? What is the gift of his message?

11. At the novel's close, Zipper opens her notebook and writes, "This story is unlikely," repeating the phrase that opens the novel. Why do you think Richardson chose to loop the book's narrative in this way? Did it change your perspective on the preceding pages?

12. If Ambrose had not received this death sentence, how do you think his life with Zipper would have progressed? Where would they have been in 10 years?

13. What was your favorite passage in the novel? Who was your favourite character?

14. If you were told you had 30 days left to live, what would you do?

15. If you were to make a pilgrimage through the alphabet, where would you go? Try working your way through the alphabet naming places you'd like to visit someday.

This book is on these lists:

Lem9579's Wish List by lem9579
Books I would like to read by Tiltedhippie
Juniebelleseven's Wish List 2 by Juniebelleseven

All lists >>

• January 2012 Indie Next List
• December 2011 Indie Next List
• November 2011 Indie Next List