What the Wind Knows

1. General Impressions 

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• Amy Harmon specializes in historical fiction romance novels. What did you think of the interplay between these two genres in What the Wind Knows? Have you read other historical fiction romances by Harmon or another author? How does this story compare to Harmon’s other work?
• What did you think of the novel’s time-travel element? Did you find the ending in which Thomas and Annie reunite in her present satisfying? Why or why not? 
• Have you encountered other books and films set in Ireland? How do these texts portray their setting, and how does Harmon’s novel challenge the tendency to romanticize Ireland? 

2. Personal Reflection and Connection 

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

• Annie and her grandfather’s mutual love of stories is at the heart of their relationship. Do you have a particular family member or role model who kindled your love of literature? What shared interests bring you close to your family and friends?
• Harmon based the novel on her own family’s history. Has your family passed down any stories about your history and heritage that you would like to share? How do these stories contribute to your understanding of yourself and your place in the world?
• The author critiques historical narratives that dehumanize or silence groups.