Points to Ponder…
Our Community Reads 2007
When the Emperor Was Divine

Points to Ponder…

1. Theme
What ideas drive this story? Are they of contemporary value or do they seem dated? How would you describe Ms. Otsuka’s book? Haunting? Moving?

2. Characters
Are you able to identify with anyone or would you choose any of these people as a friend? Which character has left you with a strong impression? How are the relationships among parents, children, and siblings portrayed?  Who is the strongest character in this book?  How would you cope with being transported into another world?

3. Reaction to the Book
What is your reaction to this book? Some say that good comes from evil, that hardship brings out the best in people. Would you say that this is true for the characters in this book?  Is this book hopeful? Explain your answer.

4. Significance of the Title
What is the significance of the title and to whom does it apply?

5. Point of View Author
What does When the Emperor Was Divine reveal about Ms. Otsuka’s view of the world?

6. Structure
What drives the book? Characters? Ideas? Plot? Was the story’s  unfolding easy to follow or did the author use techniques (flashback, dreams, stream of conscious, etc.) that interrupted its flow? Who is the narrator in this story?

7. Setting
The setting for this story is an internment camp in the Nevada desert during World War II. Would the story have the same impact had it taken place elsewhere? Are the characters’ reactions limited to this time and place only?

8. History of Story’s Event
Did Ms. Otsuka’s tale offer you enlightenment on a subject you were unaware of?

9. Nature
Does the author’s use of nature as a back drop enrich her story?

10. Language
Comment on the author’s use of language. Does it enhance the story or detract from it? Were there any particular passages that have remained with you?

11. Descriptive Aspect
Comment on the author’s descriptive abilities. Did you feel that she was able to clearly state what she was trying to depict in the story?

12. Plot
What impels the plot in this book? What events are most clearly revealed and memorable? At any time did the author use foreshadowing?

13. Conflict and Resolution
Discuss the conflicts the characters face? Are any of them of the characters’ own making, or does fate seem to have played a strong role in their lives? Are the characters able to make their own choices in any situations?

14. Book as a Whole
What are the greatest strengths and weaknesses of When the Emperor Was Divine? Would you recommend this book to a friend? Can you envision it as a film?

Funding For Our Community Reads Provided By

• Our Community Reads grant from the Kane County Regional Office of Education, Dr. Clem Mejia, Regional Superintendent
• St. Charles Public Library (Illinois Per Capita Grant)
• Elgin Community College Writers Center