Invisible Lives

Reading Group GuideDiscussion Questions:Works of magic realism mingle realistic portrayals of events and characters with elements of fantasy and myth. What role does magic realism play in this novel? How does Lakshmi's relationship with her namesake, the Hindu goddess Lakshmi, affect her life?Lakshmi lives under the weight of her mother's "old-fashioned longings" for her to find a suitable Indian husband, produce several male children, and become financially successful. How do these expectations differ from those of mothers in other cultures? What specific cultural values do Lakshmi and her mother share?Do you express your culture and personality in the way you dress? What role does clothing play in this story and in Lakshmi's ability to see the hidden longings in others?Lakshmi thinks, "I'm helping women, one sari at a time." How do saris serve as catalysts for change for different characters?Why does Lakshmi hide her beauty? Would you do the same thing if you were in Lakshmi's position?When Lakshmi first meets Nick, she unexpectedly loses her sixth sense. Why do you think this happens? Is Lakshmi still able to help others without her special powers?Lakshmi understands "the power of pride -- and fear -- that can make us turn away from what we want the most." She sees this in her clients and in her friend Mitra who cannot make amends with her dying father. Why does she feel compelled to help people reveal their hidden longings?Lakshmi finds Nick and Ravi attractive in different ways. How does each man appeal to her?When Lakshmi discovers her mother's secret, why does she feel so disconcerted by her mother's happiness?What role does Jamila Tarun's wedding ring play in the story? How does it serve to help Lakshmi gain a deeper understanding of her parents and the choices they made?Lakshmi's father visits her in a dream and says "There are things in life that happen by accident. Someone walks in front of you, smiles at you in the street. Serendipity." What is her father's message?Do you believe that love grows over time or do you believe in love at first sight?Do you have an invisible life? And if so, how much of it do you share with your family and friends?Enhance Your Book Club:Visit http://hinduism.about.com/od/artculture/ss/wearasari.htm for an illustrated step-by-step guide that teaches you how to wear a sari.Visit the online sari shop, Sari Safari, http://www.sarisafari.com/ , for a virtual textile tour through the tremendous range and variety of weaving, dyeing and embellishing traditions of the Indian sari.For more interesting information about saris, read the bookThe Sari, by Mukulika Banerjee and Daniel Miller (Berg Publishers, 2004).Banerjee, Anjali is the author of 'Invisible Lives' with ISBN 9781416517054 and ISBN 1416517057.