Zora and Me

Do your own research into the life and works of Zora Neale Hurston. How does the real person compare with the fictional character in Zora and Me? What similarities do you notice? Are there any major differences?

Compare and contrast Zora and Me with another work with similar themes. Some options could include The Lions of Little Rock by Kristin Levine, Ruth and the Green Book by Calvin Alexander Ramsey, or Passing by Nella Larsen (for older readers). What themes and/or ideas do the works share in common? How do they differ in their handling of these themes?

Consider the friendship between Carrie and Zora. How would you describe the connection between the two girls? How does that friendship reflect the book’s themes?

Research the history of Eatonville, which was a real town. Consider the political realities that brought Eatonville into existence. Do you think this book provides an accurate portrayal of the town? Why or why not? How does the town serve as a case study of the wider historical context of the time?

Analyze the character of Mr. Ambrose. How is he characterized in the text? How does Zora’s understanding of him change over the course of the narrative? What is his wider significance in the text?

Examine the concept of “white lies” as used in the novel. Why do you think the book’s Black characters think these lies are necessary? How do white lies protect them and inform how they move through the world? How do these lies relate to the idea of storytelling?

Carrie and Zora gain new insight into the realities of racism in this story. How does racism impact their lives, even as children? How does the novel depict and explore the nature of racism?

In your own words, explain why Gold has chosen to pass as white. Research the realities of life in the Jim Crow South when developing your answer. What factors influence Gold’s decision? How does Gold’s experience reflect The Complications of Race and Belonging in the text?