Yellowface

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Betrayal and deceit are central themes in Yellowface. Are there any moments that make June’s character redeemable? Discuss any moments in which you felt compassion for June. 
• Dark humor highlights June’s desperation in Yellowface. Does this stylistic choice make her acts of plagiarism and cultural appropriation easier to digest? How might you react if the story relayed the act of plagiarism without using dark humor? How would this alternate approach affect your views of June and the publishing industry?

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences and perspectives.

• Consider a friendship in which you felt a sense of rivalry. Were there elements of betrayal in this friendship? How does this experience inform your interpretation of June’s actions or Athena’s death?
• Did you ever find yourself rooting for June’s plans to work? What does this tell you about the nature of embarrassment and public shaming, even if it is valid to point out unethical behavior?
• Like June, have you ever felt that you don’t deserve to take up significant social or professional space? Conversely, when have you felt that you belonged because of your identity? Has your identity ever guaranteed your inclusion while others were left out?
• What emotions do June’s actions initially invoke in you? Does her plagiarism of Athena’s work create anger, fear, sadness, compassion, or other emotions? How and when do these emotions change as June falls deeper into her own trap?