When Sullivan Met Lola reading group questions

1. Despite her age and her failing eyesight, Lola has the courage to make a daunting trip to Melbourne on her own. In what surprising ways did she find she wasn’t alone at all?

2. What are some of Sullivan’s personality traits that Lola finds most endearing and refreshing, and vice versa? Why do you think they each respond to such qualities?

3. ‘Go revisit your special Melbourne places, Lola. Record your beautiful memories.’ Do you have any special places in the world that bring back important memories for you?

4. How do Sullivan’s relationships with Eliza and Lawrence and new friend Frankie support him in finding his place in the world?

5. How did you feel about the evolution of Lisa and Miles’ relationship? Do you think they made the right decision?

6. In this book we learn more about Lola and Geraldine’s feelings towards each other. Did you relate to one woman over the other, or can you see both sides?

7. Discuss the different ways in which Sullivan and Lola learn to balance their worries with hope.

8. Do you imagine Lola will be happy in the old folks’ home? Why or why not?

9. Discuss the ways in which the shadow of Anna plays out in this novel. What role does this play in the relationship between Bett and Carrie in particular?

10. ‘Books aren’t baggage. Books are portals to other worlds.’ Discuss the ways in which Sullivan’s books – and books in general – are so important.

11. Have you read any of the other books in Monica’s Quinlan family series, and if so, how satisfying did you find this final instalment?