A Year Without Home Book Club Questions
10 discussion questions for A Year Without Home by V.T. Bidania.
October 18, 2026
Spoiler warning: some questions touch on how the book ends. Best read after you've finished it.
Discussion questions
- How does V.T. Bidania's use of verse contribute to the emotional impact of Gao Sheng's story?
- What does the lush landscape of Laos represent for Gao Sheng, and how does her connection to it change over the course of the novel?
- Discuss Gao Sheng's relationship with her father. How does his role as a Hmong captain affect her perception of him and her responsibilities?
- Was it right for Gao Sheng's family to decide to leave Laos despite the risks involved? What would you have done in their situation?
- How do the moments of family bonding, like rolling down the grassy hill, contrast with the tense atmosphere created by the political situation?
- Do you think Gao Sheng's belief that "a good daughter doesn’t ask questions or complain" helps or hinders her during the family's displacement?
- How does the novel address the theme of identity, especially in terms of Gao Sheng's cultural heritage and personal growth?
- What are the turning points in the story that significantly change Gao Sheng's understanding of "home"?
- Do you agree with the statement that young readers will feel "energized and empowered" after reading Gao Sheng's story? Why or why not?
- How did you interpret the ending of 'A Year Without Home'? What do you think the future holds for Gao Sheng and her family?
These questions were drafted with AI help for book clubs using Lapwing.
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