1. General Impressions

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

• How does Violet’s transformation from scribe to dragon rider demonstrate different aspects of her character? Which of Violet’s qualities remain the same, and which new qualities emerge as she becomes a skilled dragon rider?
• Basgaith War College is an inherently dangerous place, preparing young adults for war. How does the setting intensify the novel and the characters’ relationships, particularly between the riders? How are alliances and friendships magnified because of the setting?
• How does Fourth Wing’s lethal environment compare with other popular works like The Hunger Games? 

2. Personal Reflection and Connection

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

• Violet is forced to prove her strength to the people who doubt her. Consider a moment in your life when you have overcome others’ expectations of you, whether physically or emotionally, by relying on your own strength. How did your experience compare to Violet’s?
• Violet’s relationships with Dain and Xaden are complex and shifting. Consider relationships in which you have had to rely on someone despite being unsure of their trustworthiness. Did these relationships end in betrayal or loyalty? What did you learn from these experiences?
• What parallels can be drawn between Basgaith War College and real-life settings of competition, like high school or college? When have you experienced tension like Violet, and how did you overcome it? Does your survival technique overlap with Violet’s?

3.