1. Have you ever scribbled your name onto a wall or carved it into a bench? What drives Hope to leave her mark with "Hope was here" at every stop she makes?

2. Hope weaves its way through the narrative like a golden thread. Can you find instances where the characters cling to hope? Do their dreams hold any weight in reality?

3. Delve into the essence of "comfort food." What is it, really?

4. In many cultures, names are chosen with meticulous care, believed to shape the destinies they label. Why do you think Hope, in a bold move, selected such an aspirational name for herself?

5. The names of several characters resonate with deeper meaning, capturing the essence of their personalities or life paths. Explore the symbolism behind these names.

6. Hope devises a collection of life principles throughout the book. Identify at least five of her rules, and discuss their universal relevance.

7. Hope's mother is convinced that parting with Hope was an act of love, the best decision for her. Was it truly in Hope's best interest? Should her mother play any role in Hope's life, despite not supporting her?

8. G. T. honors his loved ones by planting trees. What drives him to do this? Uncover the layers of meaning behind this symbolic act and its significance in the story.

9. Consider the strategies G. T. employs in his quest for victory. Does he falter in judgment at any point? Reflect on what choices you might make differently in his shoes, and why.

10. When Hope proclaims herself "the perfect daughter" for G. T. in the finale, what truth is she revealing? Explore the depth of her statement.