Is the Foxman family really in mourning? How can you tell? As an atheist, why does Mort request that his family sit shiva after his death?

Would you have read this book if it was on the shelf without being a book discussion title?

What's wrong with these people! Whom do you finger as the most dysfunctional family member, including spouses? Which character do you find...funniest...most despicable...most sympathetic? Be honest, now: any of them you identify with?

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Family member?

What has caused the tension between Judd and his brother Paul? What are some of the other family secrets and entanglements?

What did this story line lack?

Clearly, Judd is an adult, yet this book can also be seen as a delayed coming-of-age story. What does Judd learn in the end about himself and his role in helping to create the world in which he finds himself?

How 'bout that rabbi? Is the Foxman's assessment of him fair?

What do the Foxman offspring come to understand about their parents by the book's finale?

How does Judd respond to becoming a father, and how does he connect his role as soon-to-be parent with the loss of his own father? In what way does parenthood take on meaning for him?

What is the significance of the book's title?

Did you see the movie? What comparisons did you make? Did you like the book better?

Why do you think this family is so dysfunctional?

What was your favorite scene/family issue?

Sources:

• LitLovers