In a Holidaze

How does Mae’s tendency toward self-sacrifice impede her happiness? Analyze at least three distinct examples in your response.

How do Mae’s various repetitions of the holiday underscore the fact that the real power of such festive occasions lies in personal relationships, not in external factors?

Consider the role of Aaron and Kyle’s children in the various versions of the time loop. How does Mae’s loving attitude toward them take varying forms as her approach to the holiday changes?

How do the authors demonstrate that Mae’s fear of change and struggles with intimacy are likely rooted in the dynamics that characterize her family of origin? How does Mae come to recontextualize her parents’ divorce and subsequent interactions, and how does this view affect her own approach to romance?

How do the authors rely on pop culture references to shape the dynamics of Mae’s intimacy with Andrew, as well as her understanding of her time-travel abilities?

Analyze Theo’s various responses to Mae as her behavior shifts in each iteration of the vacation. What character flaws does he exhibit, and how does Mae navigate the thornier aspects of her relationship with him?

How does Mae’s relationship to her brother illustrate her shifting understanding of family, responsibility, and tradition?

How does Mae use creativity and imagination to find the courage to fight for the romantic future she wants?