Hate List

Identify a bully in the novel Hate List. What defines that character as a bully? What examples illustrate the effects of this character’s bullying?

One ongoing question in Hate List is whether Valerie and Nick are victims or bullies. Assess their use of the hate list. Are their critiques justified? At what point does their list start to reflect their own hate?

Brown chooses to leave the novel’s ending open, as Valerie travels to an unknown destination. Predict what Valerie would gain by staying in Garvin vs. going on her trip. Given what she’s been through, which is the better choice for Valerie

A major turning point in Valerie’s recovery is her discovery of art. Explain the benefits of art therapy for patients like Valerie—what effect can art have as a treatment for depression and anger?

Many chapters in Hate List begin with news articles covering the deaths or grave injuries suffered the day of the shooting. Analyze Brown’s choice here by selecting three chapters that begin this way. What do the news articles add to the chapters?

Much of Valerie’s attachment to Nick stems from her absent relationship with her own father. Describe the dynamic between Valerie and her father. What void does Nick fill?

Valerie has a precarious relationship with her mother, one that only worsens after the shooting. Compare Valerie’s mother to Bea, Valerie’s painting teacher. What valuable qualities does Bea offer that Valerie’s mother cannot or does not?

Hate List shows how people can change their hearts and minds when they see firsthand the damaging effects of hate. Discuss three specific characters that exemplify this change. How did they change after the shooting?