The 100 Year-Old-Man Who Climbed Out The Window and Disappeared
By Jonas Jonasson

 

West Maui Book Club DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
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Discussion Questions – Allen & Ulwin, Publisher

1. Publishers Weekly called this book, a "gentle lampoon of procedurals and thrillers." With a detective, a band of criminals and escapees on the run, it seems a valid description. Are these the terms in which you would talk about this novel? How else would you describe it?

2. What do you consider justice for Allan Karlsson?

3. Many readers have spoken about the humour and optimism of Allan Karlsson. How do these characteristics weave through the novel? What parts do you find particularly funny...and what makes them funny?

4. The One Hundred Year Old Man is a novel with the topic of ageing at its core. What are society's expectations of how the elderly should act? Talk about the ways—obvious and not-so-obvious—in which Allan defies the usual stereotypes. What are your own experiences, either as an older person yourself...or as someone who worries about an older friend or family member? Does society do a good job in terms of how we treat our older population? Have you read other novels that explore (and shatter) a strongly held societal belief?

5. History and politics sit lightly within the framework of this novel. When it comes to international relations, what worldview would you say the author seem to hold?

6. A definition of "satire" is "a literary composition in which vices, abuses and follies, etc are held up to scorn, derision or ridicule" (Macquarie Dictionary). Do you think this novel is a satire—and what is being satirized?


Discussion Questions – gcbooks.wordpress.com

1. Did you find this book humourous?

2. This book has been translated into many languages and published around the world, selling millions of copies. Scandi-Lit is often renown for being bleak and dark, are you surprised by the popularity of this novel?

3. What are the central themes of this novel? Do you think that accurately pinpoint true characteristics of man?

4. Why do you think the author chose a centenarian for the main character?

5. Can you see parallels between the central character, Allan Karlsson and Forrest Gump?

6. What did you think about the relationship between Allan and Amanda?

7. Many real events and famous people were woven into the plot. Did you find that this added or detracted from the twists of the tale?

8. What do you think all the main characters had in common, if anything?

9. Did you find each far-fetched scenario within the plot, amusing each time or did you begin to find it repetitive and boring? Was the novel too long?

10. Were you satisfied with the conclusion of this book?