Almond

Empathy is a major theme in the novel, with Yunjae and Gon both having their own experiences and perceptions of it. How does the novel explore empathy through its characters? Pick a character other than Yunjae or Gon and discuss the way empathy shapes their actions and beliefs.

What does Almond teach readers about South Korean culture? How is culture important to the themes of the novel?

How do the short chapters affect the novel’s development? What does it convey about Yunjae’s perspective or experiences?

Dora and Gon are arguably the characters that have the most direct impact on Yunjae’s development throughout the novel. In what ways do they help, or stunt, Yunjae’s personal development? How do they each help him come of age?

At the novel’s end, Yunjae experiences emotion when Gon cries over him and claims he has become human. What does this convey about Yunjae’s view of himself and the world? In what ways might this perspective be harmful?

Why does Dora nearly disappear at the novel’s end? Why do you think Yunjae doesn’t mention going to visit her in the Epilogue? Use specific examples and thematic analysis in your response.

What is the role of “miracles” in the novel? Is Yunjae’s experience of emotion and his mother’s recovery portrayed as a miracle or as a possibility from the beginning? How does this conflict with Yunjae’s practical view of the world?

Compare and contrast Dr. Yun and Dr. Shim. How do their academic professions and family lives compare? What about their relationship with Yunjae? Use specific examples.