We Were the Lucky Ones

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of death, religious discrimination, and racism.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. Share and discuss your overarching impressions of We Were the Lucky Ones. Which aspects of the novel were the most emotionally resonant for you, and why?

2. Compare and contrast We Were the Lucky Ones with other works set during the Holocaust—e.g., Anne Berest’s The Postcard and Thomas Kenneally’s Schindler’s List. How do these novels similarly interweave true stories and fictional representations?

3. What other WWII novels is Hunter’s novel in conversation with? For instance, you might consider parallels between We Were the Lucky Ones and Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale, Martha Hall Kelly’s Lilac Girls, and Kristin Harmel’s The Book of Lost Names. How do these various novels tackle themes of survival?

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

1. Reflect on Addy Kurc’s relationship with Eliska. How did you respond to their meeting and romance? Did anything surprise you about Eliska’s character and her response to Addy’s situation?