Book Club+ MPC discussion

Hi everyone,

If you are joining us for "How to Stop Time" by Matt Haig, we are now at page 51.

Tom Hazard is now living with his adopted dog, Abraham. Rose has passed, but Tom continues to search for Marion. His will to continue living is decreasing and the thought of trying to keep going with his condition is becoming harder. He is lonely and living without companionship and love is becoming difficult.

Tom was thinking of memories he had of his mother and living in the past, the struggles he faced and untrustworthy people they encountered and dangerous behaviors.

Teaching at the school in London, Tom came across the French woman who was staring at him the other day. Back at home, he has flashbacks of conversation with his mother, as she asks him to promise to keep living. She was led to her death, being accused of being a witch. Tom regretted the promise he made to her of staying alive and finding a purpose in life.

Tom runs into Camille Guerin, the French woman in the school parking lot.
She is determined to get to know Tom better and be friends with him. Tom speaks to Hendrich who is checking on Tom and his new job. Tom tells Hendrich about having headaches. Hendrich tells him the headaches happen during their "middle years" and it is normal. Tom tells Hendrich he received a friend request from Camille and Hendrich tells Tom it is not wise to get involved and break that rule about falling in love.

What are your thoughts so far about this story? Tom is flashing back and remembering his mother and her tragic death. She wanted him to keep living, he is struggling with that promise. Can he continue living? He's lonely and has avoided love because of the rule he must follow. Without finding Marion he is losing hope and the will to live. Can Tom keep going? Camile is very interested in Tom, can he allow her to get close to him, even if it is just a little? What risk is that friendship to him? to Camille?

Have a good day.

Sincerely,

-Donna