Floating

1. Many of us have moments when we realize that we are different, and often with that realization comes alienation. When does Shanna's "moment of awakening" regarding her racial identity come? Is it more harmful for her because she is so young when it happens?2. In "Cooling," Shanna reveals that her feelings for Lionel have evolved from the fiery intensity that she initially felt to a malevolent passiveness. What draws her to him initially? What does she see in him that makes her romantic feelings begin to subside?3. Readers are introduced to "the four fathers" through Shanna's father, James, in the vignette "Rememory." What are the lessons that they teach him? Are their lessons demonstrated through his actions? How does his mother counteract the strength that they attempt to instill in him? What are some lessons that you have learned from co-parents, mentors, or family friends?4. In "Going Home," Shanna begins to learn about her father's family history. How does learning about her past help to ground her, empowering her to make some choices that are beneficial to her?5. In Part Three, Shanna goes to live with her mother in the affluent Main Line world. She likens the experience to being reborn. In what ways are her eyes opened for the first time? What experiences are new for her? Is she emotionally ready for her new life?6. Through James, Shanna's father, readers come to view his mother as manipulative. Does Elizabeth, Shanna's mother, demonstrate that or any other characteristics that are similar?7. Throughout American literature, readers have met numerous literary figures who are classified as tragic mulatto figures, those whose biracial or multiracial identity confuses them. How does Shanna fit that classification? How does she differ? Does she have a "break out" moment in which she is clear about who she is?8. Shanna is plagued by feelings of abandonment that stem from her mother's desertion. These abandonment issues resurface in other areas of her life. How does she try to make amends in her desertion of Lionel?9. Shanna's father is very aware of his shortcomings, and he demonstrates honesty in revealing those flaws to others. How do his needs get overlooked in his relationship with Elizabeth? How does he attempt to move beyond his human frailties in order to reach out to Shanna?10. James, Shanna, and Elizabeth all have pasts that haunt them; however, knowledge of the past reveals important facts about both family and personal history. What is some information that you have learned that you wish you had known sooner? What is something that you'd rather not have learned? How did this knowledge change you?Bailey-Williams, Nicole is the author of 'Floating', published 2004 under ISBN 9780767915649 and ISBN 076791564X.