For those of you who couldn’t make the live Zoom discussion of last month’s book club pick, “Just Kids” by Patti Smith, here’s the recording. Join the discussion by commenting on the following discussion questions.
Starting next month, the live book club discussions will be for paying subscribers only. But for the rest of the month, I’m offering 15% off annual subscriptions. Click the button below to get your discount - and if you’re ready to read September’s book club pick, read the full review here.
Did you like the book or not? If so, why or why not? Share your favorite scenes or quotes from the book.
How familiar were you with Patti Smith or Robert Mapplethorpe’s work prior to reading Just Kids? How did reading the book change your perception of them?
Why did Patti title the book Just Kids? How does this title convey the theme?
What does it mean to be an artist? What sacrifices does the artistic path require? Would you be willing to make the same sacrifices they did?
What role does morality play in this story? How do Patti and Robert embody light and dark? And how does each character move between sin and holiness?
Patti and Robert don’t pick up the instruments that brought them fame until nearly the end of the book. Why did Patti choose to frame the story like this?
What do you think of Patti and Robert’s relationship? How have society’s views on sex, sexuality, and relationships changed since 1969?
The characters cross paths with (and actively pursue) famous people. What does this book say about fame? And why did Patti and Robert become famous?
VIDEO: "Just Kids" Book Discussion