Introduction

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Discussion Questions

1. Consider the epigraph: “[T]he very color of the air in the place I was born was different, the smell of the earth was special, redolent with memories of my parents.” -Natsume S?seki
Why do you think Gail Tsukiyama chose this quote? What do you think it reveals about the major themes of the book?
2. How many narrators are there in the book? Which one most resonated with you and why?
3. Consider the Ghost Voices chapters. How do they serve to advance the story, and why do you think they were ordered this way in the book?
4. Friendship and family play integral roles in the book. In what ways do they manifest? Discuss the Okawa Fish Market.
5. Why does Daniel return to Hilo? Why does Maile return? How are their reasons similar and dissimilar?
6. How is Mariko’s love for Franklin different from her love for Koji? Discuss her choices throughout the book. Do you agree with them or disagree with them?
7. The Color of Air takes place in two time periods: the early 1900s and the 1930s. Review the economy and culture of the time. How do they inform the story?
8. Review the old Hawaiian legend on page 298 and consider its significance.
9. Critics have praised Tsukiyama’s ability to convey the five senses: sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. Point to examples in the book and discuss which ones connected you most to the setting and story.
10. Evaluate the themes of memory and tradition in the book. How are they significant? How do they hold characters back or push them forward?

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