Behind Every Good Man

1. What challenges does Beverly face as she navigates her new life - balancing her ambition and the pressures of a 1960s society?

2. What does Beverly do right as she deals with Larry? What does she do wrong? Were you surprised when she kicked him out? Do you think this was the norm for women of her time?

3. Consider how Beverly's female friends and her mother supported her. Could Beverly have gotten as far in her journey to independence without this support?

4. What did you think of Beverley's decision to work for Landau - the opponent of her husband's candidate for Senator? Do you think this was the best way to seek revenge on her husband?

5. Discuss the relationship between Beverly and Michael - how does it change and grow? Were you surprised they became romantically interested in each other?

6. What qualities does Beverly like about Michael and vice versa?

7. Were you surprised by the outcome of the election?

8. Does the book accurately present the reality of being a Woman in the 1960s?

9. Is the path Beverly takes to support herself and care for her children realistic for the 1960s?

10. What did you think of Larry, his treatment of Beverly, and his views on women in general?

11. Why do you think that, at least initially, Larry dismisses Beverly's abilities and doesn't take her seriously as she starts working for his political opponent

12. If you were Beverly - how would you handle her situation with Larry? Do you think Beverly understood the difficulties she was about to face?

13. Does Larry's perspective on Beverly change over time?

14. What do you think was the turning point for Michael's campaign manager, Stuart, in his relationship with Beverly - when he started to work with her instead of against her?

15. Was Stuart a valuable asset to the campaign?

Book Club Talking Points:
Beverly is a complex character, who must make some tough decisions as she is essentially starting her life over. The story is set in the 1906s which is a very interestiong era with a lot of social and political change. And the story also explores gender equality, mother-daughter relationshops, women supporting other women and the menaing of love and commitment.