The Push: Mother. Daughter. Angel. Monster?

What are the expectations of what a good mother is supposed to be—according to society, Fox, and Blythe herself? Do you believe these expectations are fair? How does Blythe believe she fails to measure up to them?

Regardless of whether Violet is merely a bully or a full-fledged murderer, to what extent do you think her violent tendencies result from how Blythe treats her in infancy and early childhood, versus tendencies based on genetics? What does the author say about the “nature versus nurture” debate with respect to inherited trauma?

Given the decades of trauma in Blythe’s family, do you think she was doomed to have a difficult relationship with Violet? Without judging Blythe’s actions, how could she have increased the odds of cultivating a strong, loving relationship with her daughter?

In what ways is Blythe an unreliable narrator? Choose three events and explain why you believe the truth of these events may differ from how Blythe presents them.

Why do you think Blythe bonds so quickly with Sam despite struggling to do so with Violet?

Although the inherited trauma in The Push flows from mother and daughter, men play a major role in perpetuating this trauma. Explain how this occurs, referring to at least three male characters.

What is your view of Fox? Do you see him as a negligent, unfaithful husband who gaslights his wife? Or do you see him as a great father whose behavior is rooted in a desire to do what is best for Violet? Explain the evidence supporting both possibilities.

Aside from a reference to Violet’s supposed push of Sam’s stroller, what else does the novel’s title mean?