Good Dirt

1. Ebby struggles with guilt, grief, and forgiveness. How did you see her change over the course of the book, and do you think she ever fully came to terms with her past? Did any of her actions frustrate you?

2. Ebby's mother and grandmother and father, as well as Ebby herself, each cope with trauma differently. Which character's response to pain or loss felt the most authentic-or the most frustrating-to you?

3. Ebby often wrestles with whether she should run from her past or face it. Were there moments when you wanted to push her toward a different choice?

4. How does Henry's relationship with his girlfriend, Avery reveal parts of his character that we might not see otherwise? Do you think she challenges him or enables him?

5. Ebby's story touches a lot on family history and legacy. How does the book show the impact of race and systemic inequality on her life and the lives of those around her?

6. Family secrets play a big role in Good Dirt. How do the secrets Ebby uncovers change your understanding of her family-and her?

7. How do the different generations in the story handle trauma? Did any character's way of coping surprise you or feel especially relatable?

8. How did Ebby's decision to take refuge in France after Henry stood her up at the wedding shape her character? What does her time there reveal about her independence, resilience, and how she processes betrayal?

9. Ebby and Henry's relationship is complicated and full of tension. How did their choices and misunderstandings affect how you felt about each of them?

10. Do you think Henry truly understood the impact of his actions on Ebby, especially around the wedding incident? How does that shape your view of him?

11. What do the five words at the bottom of the jar mean to you, and how do they connect to Ebby's journey and the family history in Good Dirt?

12. The jar, "Old Mo," carries a lot of history. What do you think it symbolizes about heritage, memory, and the stories we pass down?

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Book Club Talking Points:
Good Dirt is excellent for book clubs, because it has layered characters, family secrets, and deep history which is sure to spark conversation. The themes of trauma, legacy, and forgiveness will also provide plenty to explore, and the symbolic jar encourages sharing personal reflections.