Discussion Questions or Push
How does the voice of Precious change the way we see her? Can it change the way others in her community see her or refuse to see her?
What roles do language and emotion play in the book?
At what points do we see change in Precious? At what point do we see Precious owning her identity and her destiny rather than accepting what others have forced on her? What influences her change?
As Precious learns about the world around her, how do her views on race and sexuality change? Do her friendships help her lose her biases and see beyond stereotypes? What factors contribute to the way Precious sees the world in the beginning of the book, and what factors make her reconsider?
What problems does Sapphire want us to be aware of? What societal institutions does the novel critique? What solutions do you think she offers?
What is the role of Precious' community in forming her individual self?
What is the role of literacy in identity formation? What is the role of writing and expression in Precious' story? Why are these crucial elements?
What does Precious learn about her identity as a parent? Do you think she comes to forgive her own parents? Why or why not? What does Sapphire suggest about motherhood and the role it plays in identity formation?
What is this book suggesting about themes like power, abuse, and survival?
What do you think of the ending of the book? Is it hopeful? What do you think happens to Precious and her son?
Is this an American Dream story or the opposite? Is it a story of hope or a story of despair? Or is it not that simple - and why?
What is the purpose of the Life Stories at the end? Why does Sapphire end with them and what do they add to the novel?
