Kindling Book Questions Click for PDF
- Many science fiction stories involve a cataclysmic event that changes the world. What did you think about The Reckoning Call as the instigating event in Kindling? Do you think that humans would respond as depicted in the book?
- Did you find the world of Scorch plausible from an environmental perspective? Why or why not?
- Praenex, the term used for the new human species, is derived from the Latin meaning “before” or “in front of” + “violent death”. Why do you think the traditional humans who named the new human species selected this name? Could the name have more than one meaning?
- When we first meet Mercy Adams, she simply wants to be left alone with her history books. What do you think of her evolution as a character? What events were pivotal in her transformation? How do you think her interactions with adult leaders influenced her decision to directly participate in the rescue mission?
- Van Elder is the only traditional human in this group of friends. What do you think about his approach and philosophy for living in a praenex world? How do you think he deals with his insecurities throughout the story? What advice would you give him if you could?
- The world of Scorch is a racially diverse melting pot; Mercy is Asian and Van is Black. Racial discrimination ended with the arrival of the praenex, but what kind of prejudice do you still see demonstrated in the world of Scorch? What other discrimination has decreased or disappeared? Why do you think this is?
- What do you think of the praenex? For six hundred years they lead a peaceful planet free of war and social competition, but void of the arts and humanities, sports, and recreation. Their children go to school year-round and become adults incredibly early. How do you think the traditional humans would have responded differently than the praenex to these conditions? Do you think this contributes to the separation between Alberta Farms and other settlements?
- Contrast Scorch with our actual world. Do you think an economy based on work to earn “leisure credits” could work? What do you think of their social media form of government? Would you want to live in this kind of society?
- What does the world of the book say about our actual world if anything? Is it optimistic about a potential future or cautionary?
- What did you think about the special abilities demonstrated among the praenex? Eddie LeRoux’s mind control surprises many characters. May is an amplifier. Mercy sees the future. Do you think that people react in believable ways to the abilities of the main characters?
- The people of Scorch are spiritual, but they don’t practice any named religion. They’re monotheistic, but they have left behind the traditions and rituals of their ancestors. How do you think this common faith impacts their social norms and behaviors?
- If the praenex understand their purpose through their bond with the Creator, why do you think disagreements between Pilgrims and Terrans are increasing?
- Who is your favorite character and why? Which character did you like the least and why? Would you like to be friends with this group and if so, what role would you play in this band of friends?