For Book Clubs

Hazel says “no” right in the title. How did you feel about the inciting incident coming so fast and dramatically at the end of chapter one? Did that feel different and new?

Were you hesitant to pick up and continue reading a book that begins with such an upsetting incident of sexual harassment? If so, explain. What made you want to continue reading?

Do you think Claire and Gus have a good marriage? What do you think of their parenting style?

Was Wolf wrong to say something?

Was Gus wrong to teach The Cosby Show?

Hazel says no multiple times in the novel, before saying yes. Discuss the different ways and times Hazel says no throughout the novel — from the principal’s office to the publishing world — and how each shaped her as a character.

Have you ever been in a situation where you had to say a big (and scary) no? What consequences did that have?

When Hazel is asked to write a book about what happened to her, did you feel excitement or concern? What was your emotional response to Hazel saying no to the book deal?

What role does humor play in Hazel Says No?

Beyond the Greenburg Blum family, Hazel Says No has a variety of vivid characters from Sadie Lansky to the rabbi. Who were your favorites? How did you feel about the contrast between the Mainers and the New Yorkers?

Agree or disagree — and discuss! The Greenberg Blums aren’t very religious or observant, but they are very Jewish. How so? In what ways do they think of themselves as Jews? And live their Jewish identity? What does it mean to be a secular or cultural Jew?

The novel considers the contrast between small-town life, often dreamed of and desired by many, and life in a big city, seen as more stressful and dangerous. Do you think this viewreflects reality?

What do you think happens to each of the Greenburg Blums after the novel ends? Do you think they will stay in Riverburg? Will Hazel become a writer one day?