Women Rowing North: Navigating Life's Currents and Flourishing As We Age

Pipher describes the book as a “how to think” book rather than a “how to” book. In what ways does she help older women learn how to think about aging? Are there ways the book follows a how-to format?

Choose an epigraph from one of the chapters and relate it to the chapter’s themes and ideas. How does the epigraph reflect or contrast with these themes and ideas?

Pipher titles the final section of the book “The Northern Lights.” Why does she choose this title? How do the chapter titles in the section relate to this title and the themes of the book?

Pipher contends that the book takes a feminist perspective on older women. Choose three concepts from feminism and apply them to the experiences of older women beyond Pipher’s discussion of their feelings about the perceived loss of attractiveness and sexuality. How does feminism illuminate the experiences of older women? How can feminism be used to advocate for them?

Compare and contrast Women Rowing North with Reviving Ophelia. How do the two books complement each other? How are their themes similar or different?

Why is ageism socially acceptable in comparison to racism, sexism, anti-gay bias, or other forms of prejudice? How does Women Rowing North address the social acceptability of ageism?

Pipher uses rivers and other motifs throughout the book. Choose one motif and analyze its meaning and symbolism, as well as the reason for its use in the chapter(s) where it appears. How does the motif connect with other motifs in the book?

What are some alternative paradigms to positive or successful aging? How do they connect with or diverge from Pipher’s arguments that Intention and Gratitude Support Positive Aging?