1. Flying the Nest is told from alternating viewpoints. Were there some storylines you enjoyed or cared about more than others? If so, what about those characters made their story stand out?
2. This book had a lot to say about loneliness and community. Why do you think the author chose to set this story in an assisted living facility?
3. How do gender norms and stereotypes play into this novel? Discuss.
4. Research shows that racialized occupational segregation still occurs in Canada. https://yfile.news.yorku.ca/2021/01/24/research-highlights-racialization-of-long-term-care-workers/. This issue is touched on in Lila’s chapter, Precautionary Measures. Was this something you were aware of before reading Flying the Nest? In what other industries do you still see a division of labour and power along racial lines? In a developed country like Canada, why do you think this is still happening?
5. How do the experiences of Grant, Felicity, Martin, Herbert and Clara differ from what you have been led to expect about aging and sexuality?
6. Throughout this story, many of the characters wrestle in one way or another with what it means to be alone. For some characters, Terrance (Mr. T) plays a significant role. What need does the cat fill in this story and in these characters’ lives? Consider Rosie, Felicity and Chad.
7. Clara’s conscious is split between new love and commitment to her marriage. Did you sympathize with her internal conflict? What do you think you would do in her place?