An American Beauty: A Novel of the Gilded Age Inspired by the True Story of Arabella Huntington Who Became the Richest Woman in the Country

Greenery and gardens are an important recurring motif in the book. Given the symbolism they hold in association with Belle’s character, what is the significance of the bonsai tree that Clara possesses?

Compare and contrast Catherine, Belle, and Elizabeth with respect to their choices and capabilities as mothers. What are their relationships with their respective children like? What events and factors influence these relationships?

An American Beauty fictionalizes the life of a real historical figure: Arabella Huntington. How does Abé use the creative license that comes with fiction to imagine an inner life for her protagonist that goes beyond what is available in historical records? Which elements has Abé fictionalized and what does that bring to the story?

Examine the recurring motif of Belle’s dreams in the book and explain which larger ideas and themes they speak to.

The events of the book take place during the Gilded Age, a period in American history characterized by specific events and outcomes. What historical and cultural elements of this time contributed to the success of families like the Huntingtons?

Compare and contrast Belle’s relationships with the two Huntington men she eventually marries. Which needs and desires do each of them fulfill for her? How do they fill different roles in her life?

Catherine, Collis, and Belle are all caught up in the conflict between bending to societal expectations and fulfilling personal ambition. Are there other characters who experience this same conflict? How do they respond to this dilemma, and what influences their decisions?

Comment on Abé’s use of journal entries, letters, and newspaper articles across different chapters as a narrative technique. How do these additions supplement the more traditional storytelling?