Our Summer Book Club Selection
Nowhere for Very Long by Brianna Madia
This vividly detailed memoir follows the journey of a woman dedicating everything she has to offer to her dogs, Bucket and Dagwood. When apartment living becomes too constraining for desert-loving Dagwood, Brianna trades the traditional path for a bright orange van and endless dirt roads beckoning her forward.
Discussion Questions
- In what ways do you see Brianna and her dog, Bucket, growing and learning life lessons together? How have animals in your own life mirrored this experience?
- Brianna describes her van, Bertha, as the fifth member of their family. In what ways is Bertha portrayed as more than merely a vehicle?
- When Brianna moves to the Utah desert, her life takes on a new rhythm. What ways do you see this change impact the trajectory of her life that otherwise would likely not have occurred had she stayed in Connecticut?
- An unconventional life is at the heart of this memoir. How would you describe Brianna’s journey with her dogs as having deviated from the conventional path set before her?
- Bucket and Dagwood build their bond despite their unique personalities. Have you related to this with similar unlikely duos while spending time with animals?
- As Brianna adapts her lifestyle to meet Dagwood’s needs, in what ways have you changed your routine or life for an animal?
- Brianna often portrays moments of determination and resilience when faced with adversity. What ways do you see her display these attributes, and how have you shared these feelings in your own life?
