Playing by the Rules: A Novel (33 page)

4) Louise resists falling in love with Medford. Is there anything about her that suggests she also may be running away from herself? Why is she reluctant to make a commitment?

5) The Rules are designed to protect the community of Lemon City from the outside world, but they are also guidelines for living together as a community. Are they effective in both areas? Does
their usefulness change over time? How would The Rules affect your own community?

6) Nana and Ole Miss Johnson have been rivals for years. Do you think there will ever be peace between them? What would need to occur to make this happen?

7) Have you ever dated someone who is much older or much younger than you? How did it work out?

8) Medford and Ruby Rose have a special relationship. Despite their differences, what do they have in common? As an adult, do you think you could have a significant friendship with a child?

9) Theola has a big crush on Clement. What is it about her that prevents her from approaching him with her feelings head on? In your life, who has done most of the wooing—the man or the woman? Which do you prefer?

10) Rules are sometimes made to be broken, and there are always exceptions to rules that are subject to interpretation. In which situations were The Rules somewhat flexible? How did Nana, Louise, and Medford use this to their advantage? Give some examples of times you’ve had to bend the rules, or laws, in your town? Was it justified?

About the Author

ELAINE MERYL BROWN is vice president of Special Markets at HBO and has held the position of creative director at Showtime Networks. She is an Emmy Award–winning writer and a director. Brown has written for national publications, including
Essence
and
Women’s World
. She is the author of
Lemon City
, and she lives in New Jersey with her family. Visit the author’s website at www.elainemeryl brown.com [http://www.elainemeryl brown.com].