It Can't Happen Here

8 ways to start a deeper conversation.

Contains spoilers for the entire book.

Discussion topics

Topic 01 of 08

What kind of man is Doremus Jessup, the Vermont newspaper editor?

There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.

What kind of man is Doremus Jessup, the Vermont newspaper editor?
Keep the conversation going
- Why does he believe it can't happen in America at first?
- When does he realise he was wrong?
Why do voters choose Buzz Windrip?
Keep the conversation going
- What does his campaign promise them?
- What did you make of his book and his promises?
How does Windrip's government take control, step by step?
Keep the conversation going
- Which step seemed most dangerous to you?
- Why does so little resistance come at first?
What do the Minute Men give to men like Shad Ledue?
Keep the conversation going
- How does Shad's rise change the town?
- What does power reveal about him?
How do Doremus's family and neighbours respond to the regime?
Keep the conversation going
- Who collaborates, who resists, and who looks away?
- Which response did you find most believable?
How did the violence touch Doremus's own family, and how did you respond?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of Mary's revenge?
- What does Doremus lose?
What does the New Underground show about resistance?
Keep the conversation going
- What did you make of Lorinda Pike's role?
- Is Doremus brave, or simply unable to stay silent?
How did you feel about the ending, with Doremus still fighting?
Keep the conversation going
- Why does Lewis leave the outcome open?
- How does the novel read today?

There is no single right answer. Bring your own reading.