DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- Which stories were your favorite? Why?
- In “Lemon Creams,” Melvin O’Malley is upset that his daughter, Barbara, has placed him in Harmony Homes. Do you agree with her decision?
- Who do you think the anonymous donor of the free turkeys or hams may be? Why?
- In “Gift Wrapped,” Margot West’s first impression of the stranger outside her store makes her defensive–she even contemplates calling the police. What changes for her? Would the surprise waiting for her at home have changed in any way had she sent the man away?
- The holidays are a special time for family, but Erin Meeks (“Cookie Exchange”), Joanne Stuckey (“Winterberry Wreath”) and Bartholomew Solomon (“And We’re Wassailing”) may be spending Christmas alone. Are there times when you think you’re alone but unexpectedly find yourself in the company of others?
- What do you think will happen with Jack’s letter in “Late Bloomers?” Do you think the old adage, “Time heals all wounds,” is true?
- Cooper Buck, in “Sleigh Bells,” receives an unexpected gift. What are some things you would do for yourself and others if you received a similar gift?
- In “Scrooged,” the men of the Bah Humbug Club have found small ways to make a big difference. What anonymous acts of kindness have you witnessed or experienced? Do you agree that the holidays have become over-commercialized and that we’ve forgotten what the spirit of the season is really about? If so, what can we do about it?
- “Room at the Tea Salon” begins with two women, Nicole Gray and Carla Pike, uncertain about their immediate future. In a matter of hours, both of their lives have potentially changed as a result of their meeting. Do you believe a meeting like this Has anything similar happened to you?
- The final story, “Secret Santa,” brings us back to Harmony Homes. Any guesses who Santa might be? Do you think Melvin’s initial prediction that Mary McLean won’t last six months will hold true? How does Melvin change over these short few days?
- An Avalon Christmas is dotted with food and recipes. What are some of your favorite recipes of the season?
- In all of the Avalon books, one constant theme is how we are connected in ways both seen and unseen. Do you see these connections in your own life?
- If you could have one holiday wish this year, what would it be? Why?