DISCUSSION guide
1.
ow does the past influence the present in Upgrade? How do the characters try to repress, escape, or H even rewrite the pain of their stories?
2.
emory plays a significant role in this book; in what ways does it inform identity? Do you think even M the things you don’t remember can affect who you become? What are the events in your life that have been important in shaping who you are?
3.
In Upgrade’s near future, citizens and governments believe that genetic engineering needs to be harshly limited and regulated. Do you think we’ll need to adopt similar measures in the future? Why or why not?
4.
ogan’s mother and sister share a bleak view of humanity and its future. Did you find any parts of L their reasoning persuasive? Where do you think their arguments fail?
5.
hat did you think of the science and technology in the book? Does the idea of editing genetics excite W you or scare you?
6.
id you understand Kara’s side of the story? Did you root for Logan? Which sibling did you identify D with more?
7.
Did Upgrade change or challenge your own idea of what it means to be human?
8.
Was Logan a reliable narrator? Was there anyone else’s perspective you wish you saw?
9.
I f you were offered the chance to “upgrade” yourself, would you? Would you be worried that you’d be different or not even remotely the same person?
10. Did reading Upgrade change your understanding of genetic engineering and the role it may one day play in our lives? How so?
11.
hat did you think about the ending? Were you satisfied with it or were you left wanting more? How W do you envision Logan’s life after the story ends?
BALLANTI N E BO O KS