Literary Adventure discussion

This is certainly a departure from Elizabeth Gilbert's previous books.

1. Alma Whittaker grows up in the richest family in Philadelphia. In what ways does her father's fortune set her free? In what ways is it a prison?

2. How does Alma resemble her father? In what crucial ways do they differ?

3. Alma's decision to devote her life to studying mosses is compared to a "religious conversion." In The Signature of All Things, science and religion often intertwine. Are they ever finally reconciled? If so, how? If not, why not?

4. Alma takes "an honest accounting" of her life thus far. At this point, is she a success or a failure? What are the arguments on either side of the question? What are your own criteria for a life well-lived?