The Lovely Reckless by Kami Garcia: Classroom Discussion Questions

One of the things I loved most about The Lovely Reckless by Kami Garcia (in stores now!) is that more than being an amazing book — fun to read, fast-paced, thrilling, sexy as hell — it also gives you plenty to think about and discuss, even in a classroom setting.

With that in mind, here are some of our suggestions for classroom discussion questions for The Lovely Reckless.

1. Frankie and Marco’s relationship is compared to Romeo & Juliet, and is considered star-crossed. How do they face these challenges and overcome them? What are some other famous star-crossed lovers you could compare them to?

2. Class differences are a big part of the story in The Lovely Reckless. Discuss how this plays into the story, and your own lives. What are possible solutions to the problems these class divisions cause?

3. One of the conflicts in the story arises from Frankie’s dad doing his job as a police officer — and Frankie trying to justify Marco’s crimes, because of the situations that lead him there (his dad’s debts, trying to stay with his sister, protecting his family, etc.). Do you think there’s ever a right time to do the wrong thing? Do you think crime is black & white? (As in good/bad?) Discuss some of the nuances of this conflict, and debate whether you think Marco’s crimes were justified. Is there anything he could have done differently given his situation?

4. Discuss the circumstances that lead to Marco’s crimes, and why he felt he had no other choice. Do you think Marco had any control over his circumstances? Was there anything he could have done to solve his problems without crime?

5. Frankie’s dad makes a deal with her — to give up Marco to save him. What would you give up to save someone you loved?

6. When Frankie takes Marco to her mom’s house, she worries he sees her as “a spoiled rich girl from the Heights.” How do you think our wealth (or lack of wealth) defines us to ourselves and to others? What are ways we can change those perceptions?

7. At one point, Marco calls himself a “throwaway.” Have you ever felt like a “throwaway”? What makes a person feel like this? And what can we do to make sure the people in our lives don’t feel this way?

8. Frankie uses her journal as a source of therapy, including her grief over the death of Noah. How does writing help Frankie over the course of the book? Do you find writing helpful for working through difficult emotions or challenges?

Have more ideas? Share ’em in the comments below!

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