Book Club Discussion

These questions can help facilitate meaningful discussions, encourage personal sharing, and deepen the understanding of the themes and practices outlined in the book.

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Reach out to Louise Grayhurst for any Book Club queries.

• Before reading this title, what did group members know about the subject of narcissism?

• Personal Connection: Did any topics or stories in the book resonate with your own experiences? How did they affect your understanding of your relationship with your mother or caregiver?

• Was there a section of the book that had an impact on the reader? Was it good or bad? Share parts of that section and its impact.

• Did the way the book was written affect the reader’s enjoyment or ability to

      understand the subject? Give examples.

• Was the language the author used appropriate? Give examples.

• Were the terms and concepts explained well? Give examples.

 

• Impact on Self-Esteem: What specific ways does the book suggest that growing up with a narcissistic mother affects self-esteem? Can anyone share personal experiences related to this?

 

• Unlearning Beliefs: What are some of the common negative beliefs that the author describes as being instilled by a toxic parent? How can one begin to unlearn these beliefs?

 

• Coping Strategies: What strategies or tools does the book recommend for individuals trying to heal from their upbringing? Which of these do you find the most helpful or applicable?

 

• Rebuilding Self-Esteem: How does the author suggest one can rebuild self-esteem after feeling diminished in childhood? Are there specific exercises or practices mentioned that you found insightful?

 

• Setting Boundaries: What role do boundaries play in recovering from a toxic relationship? How does the author suggest implementing and maintaining these boundaries?

 

• The Cycle of Narcissism: The book discusses the risk of becoming a narcissistic parent yourself. What insights does the author provide about breaking this cycle? How can awareness help in this regard?

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• Support Systems: How important is it to have a supportive network while recovering from a toxic family background? What kind of support does the author recommend, and do you agree with their suggestions?

 

• External Validation: How does the struggle for external validation manifest in individuals raised by narcissistic mothers? What tips does the author provide for shifting to self-validation?

 

• Healing Journey: How does the author describe the healing journey? How long or challenging do they suggest this process may be? What has been your experience with healing?

 

• Role of Therapy: What position does the book take on therapy in the recovery process?

 

• Practical Exercises: Did the book include practical exercises or journaling prompts? If so, which ones stood out to you, and do you think they are beneficial for someone on this healing journey?

 

Drawing a Conclusion

• Did anyone’s opinions on the subject change due to information contained in this book? Has your interest in the subject matter increased? How so?

• Compared to other books your group has read, did this title or author live up to your expectations? Why or why not?

• Can any “life lessons” be learned from this story or subject? Was your outlook changed in a positive or negative way? Explain.

• What is your final impression of the book as a whole? The subject?