Lilac Girls

Caroline Ferriday was a real woman who lived during World War II, but Paul Rodierre and their relationship are entirely fictional. Why does Kelly fictionalize a romantic relationship for Caroline? Is this derivative to her character at all, and if so, why? 

How to the alternating perspectives in the narrative add to the story? Do the cliffhangers at the end of each chapter add in any way to the tone of the work? Does it differ from chapter to chapter?

Herta’s character and her decisions are often layered with irony. What are some examples of these instances? Why does Herta continue to support the Reich despite all these moments?

Halina, or Matka, has a strange relationship with both Lennart and Herta. What does Kasia think of these respective relationships, and why? Is there any evidence in the novel that Kasia might be wrong in her conclusions?

Compare the characters of Zuzanna and Herta. Who behaves more like a doctor, and why? 

Why does Kasia insist that her daughter’s self-portrait is a painting of her mother? Why is Kasia so against her daughter becoming an artist?

How does the theme of hope evolve from character to character in Lilac Girls? Why does Kelly choose to represent hope in different ways?

Consider the role that forgiveness plays in the lives of the women. What lesson, if any, does Kelly choose to impart about forgiveness and anger?