1. Themes of 'Born in Space: Unlocking Destiny':

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Delve into the central themes of Jeremy Clift's book. How do sacrifice, family, romance, and redemption intertwine in the story? Explore how the author balances scientific plausibility and societal comment with exciting fiction. How does this blend of realism and imagination contribute to the story's believability?​

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2. Redemption and Morality:

Discuss the philosophical dimensions of redemption and morality within the story. How do these themes influence the characters' arcs and the overall narrative? Examine the process and challenges of weaving themes of love and betrayal into a high-stakes, interstellar setting. How do these themes impact the story's tension and character development?

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​3. Enhancing Storytelling Through Detail and Emotion:

Explore the impact of detailed and emotional storytelling in fiction. How do added details and emotional depth enhance your reading experience?​

 

4. Artificially Conceived Children in Space:

Explore the concept of artificially conceived children in space. What drew the author to this idea, and what does it add to the wider conversation about the future of human reproduction?​

 

5. Power Struggles Over Resources:

Examine the theme of power struggles over resources in "Born in Space." How does the book update this theme for readers and what are the main resources in play?

 

6. Environmental Themes in Science Fiction:

Discuss the handling of environmental themes in "Born in Space." How does the author address these issues without becoming didactic? How worried are you by the accumulating debris in space?

 

​7. Life in a Rotating Habitat:

Would you like to live aboard a luxury rotating space habitat. What do you imagine life would be like? Perhaps like a modern cruise ship? Would you enjoy the food and the views? What would you do all day? Would you feel trapped?​

 

8. Cross-Genre Writing and Creativity:

Discuss the idea of cross-genre writing and its impact on creativity. How can blending genres enhance storytelling and attract diverse readers? How meaningful are genres in science fiction? Do they act as barriers to readers or useful categories? For some discussion on genre, see the author's blog.

 

​9. Strong Female Characters in Sci-Fi:

Examine the importance of strong female characters in sci-fi. How do they challenge traditional narratives and appeal to a broader audience?​

 

10. Family Dynamics:

Explore the complex family dynamics in the novel. How do space and time affect the relationships between characters, particularly mother-daughter and father-daughter bonds? Discuss the portrayal of the Ward family's separation and reunion across space. How are the emotional complexities of their relationships depicted?​

 

11. Lessons from the Ward Siblings' Experiences:

Discuss what readers can learn from the experiences of the Ward siblings as they navigate life in LEO and on the moon. What themes and messages stand out?

 

​12. Teagan's Journey and Mental Health:

Discuss Teagan's emotional struggles and how her relationship with Hunter and their mother influences her journey. How does the depiction of mental health resonate with you?

 

​13. Role of Artificial Intelligence in Space Exploration:

Examine the portrayal of artificial intelligence and robotics in the future of space exploration. How is AI reflected in the lives of the characters and their interactions?

 

​14. Futuristic Political and Societal Structures:

Analyze the vision of political organization and societal structures for human space colonies presented in the book. What new forms of governance and community are imagined? Is the corporate dominance realistic? What is the role for governments?

 

​15. Representation of Diverse Perspectives:

Discuss the representation of diverse perspectives among the characters. How do different backgrounds and experiences influence their responses to the challenges of space living?​

 

16. Inclusion of Intelligent Animals in Science Fiction:

Analyze the decision to include intelligent, communicative animals in the narrative. What does this creative choice add to the story?​​​​​​​​​

 

17. Music and Radio as Cultural Motifs:

Explore the role of music and radio as recurring motifs in "Born in Space." How do these elements of contemporary human culture survive and evolve in the future setting?​

 

18. Future Economic Development:

What lessons would you take from “Born in Space” about future economic development of space resources and environmental protection? What does the book say about science and technology and their effects on today’s society or the future?

 

19. Unravelling of Society on Earth:

How likely is the portrait of a society unravelling on Earth, with the rich escaping and the rest afflicted by worsening climate change and conflict? Is this too pessimistic?

 

​20. Reaching the Divine:

How successfully do you feel awe and the divine are portrayed in the novel? Does Teagan reach her heaven?​

 

Author's views: Please see the author's responses in an interview to some of these questions: ​

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