Book Club Discussion Questions and Guide for This Fatal Kiss by Alicia Jasinska

Book Club Discussion Questions

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Please be aware that this discussion guide will contain spoilers!

1. How did Gisela become a water nymph? What is the difference between a nymph and a goblin? Discuss the relationship between Gisela and Wodnik, a water goblin. Water nymphs are shape-shifters. How does Gisela shape-shift? In what way is she playful and malicious? Cite specific scenes in the book to support your thoughts.
2. Discuss the hierarchy of the spirit world. Contrast the spirits in the novel. Which spirits are the most dangerous? How are spirits like Gisela looked down upon? Note the names of all the spirits at the beginning of the novel. Chart their activities and role in the novel. Why is Rusalki considered a nuisance, especially during Green Week? How do the citizens of Lesna Woods count on Babcia?
3. Explain what Yulia means when he says, "Mortals and spirits aren't meant to be together" (p. 45). Discuss what he means when he tells Gisela that she is "defying the natural order of things" (p. 45). Consider Gisela's activities in the novel, and debate whether Yulia is correct. Cite specific scenes to prove your point.
4. Who is Kazik? What is his role in the overall conflict of the novel? What are his powers? How does he lose them? Why does he blame Gisela? Describe his work as an exorcist. What is the purpose of the Saint Hyacinth Medal that Kazik wears? At what point in the novel is his power challenged? Explain Father Pawels's view of Kazik and his family. What are the rules that govern Kazik's family's witchcraft?
5. Describe Lesna Woods and Green Week. Why is Gisela adamant about attending the festival? How does this journey contribute to the central conflict of the novel? Gisela is forced to take Tamara along. What is the "truth" that Gisela says Tamara will discover for herself? When did Gisela discover this truth? Explain why spirits like Gisela can't enter the bathhouses.
6. Who is Aleksey, and what is his role in the novel? Explain what he means when he says, "You don't have to kill someone to destroy them" (p. 204). Why is Gisela afraid of touching Aleksey? Discuss why she thinks Aleksey is difficult to read. Why does she feel betrayed by the kiss between Kazik and Aleksey? Who is Roza? Explain why Roza and Aleksey are worried that Gisela will recognize them from the past. Why does Aleksey tell Roza that Gisela is off-limits?
7. In most works of fantasy there are items or events that are symbolic. What is the symbolism of Gisela's comb? What is the meaning of the antique teacup and saucer that Gisela gives to Wojciech? What is the "fatal kiss," and what does it symbolize? Name other symbolic objects in the book.
8. Many works of fantasy have monsters, or evil spirits. Identify the monsters in this novel and trace their evil acts. Kazik believes that "violence, tragedy, and human cruelty" (p. 55) create monsters. Cite the "violence, tragedy, and human cruelty" that birthed the monsters in this novel.

Unless otherwise stated, this discussion guide is reprinted with the permission of Peachtree Teen. Any page references refer to a USA edition of the book, usually the trade paperback version, and may vary in other editions.