Celestine Sibley Fleming | Author
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION
1. Tine obviously had a great impact on Sibley. How did 'Tine help her "notice the world?".
2. Reflect on some of 'Tine's philosophies: every moment is precious; boredom indicates a bleak future; each day brings exciting, known and unknown possibilities; children do not take from your life, they add to it. How does her outlook compare to today's fast-paced life?
3. Do you think 'Tine did not want her granddaugther named after her for another reason besides simple dislike for the name?
4. Neither Sibley, nor her sons Vincent and Wolfie, ever truly grasped the Tine's fame and celebrity status. Sibley remembers the time a business acquaintance suggested she take advantage of her connections. Discuss Sibley's claim that some things appear different on the outside than in reality.
5. Sibley believes that all grandmothers hold a high place in family and society. Do you think this is true? Is it true in your family?
6. What characteristics or life events did 'Tine and Sibley share that created such a bond between the two?
7. Discuss the phrase at the end of Chapter 2: "the past is never really behind us anyway." How does this relate to 'Tine and Sibley?
8. How did 'Tine's increasing stubborness affect her relationship with her family and the men in her life? Did 'Tine's frequent employment of her column to speak her mind or win battles with family members affect her relationships?
9. How did 'Tine affect Sibley's career and confidence as a writer? Was 'Tine's success ever a strain on their relationship?
10. What are the advantages or disadvantages of a memoir written by an immediate family member versus a biography by someone more distant? Do you find a memoir to be more honest or biased?
11. Discuss how 'Tine dealt with death, from her attempt to keep "usefully busy" during Muv and Jack's deaths to her reaction to the return of her cancer.