Good Omens Book Club Questions
Welcome to the Buddy Book Club – we have a light-hearted comedic podcast that covers a variety of books. This time we’re talking Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett. It was our second foray into a Neil Gaiman book (we read American Gods early on). At the time of reading Good Omens, I described it as a crossword puzzle. A lot of jumping around, way above my intelligence level, and just when I think I’ve figured things out, I ultimately would be wrong. This was enjoyed thoroughly by D-man (currently sits at #10 on our list) and our guest @mattythekid7. If you want to check out the podcast you can listen to it here.
Our book club questions try to be a little more outside the box/comedic than your typical book club questions – hopefully you enjoy them.
Book Club Questions – Good Omens by Neil Gaiman, Terry Pratchett
-> There were plenty of characters in this book, who ended up being your favorite?
We typically relate most with the crazies – so Shadwell would be our pick. Condensed milk for the win.
-> Did you develop an appreciation for prostitutes after reading about heart-of-gold, Madame Tracy?
Medium, secretary, cook, nurse, business owner, wearer of many hats, what a great character.
-> Is there any profession you hate as much as Gaiman & Pratchett hate Telemarketers?
Hastur kills a room full of telemarketers and it creates a positive ripple effect in the world – ouch. They really despised telemarketers.
-> Do you think there is some truth in the way they describe both fast food and dieting?
This book was written 30+ years ago but these themes still ring true.
-> There was a lot of side stories going on in this book, what was your favorite?
Mine was the quick flash back to Agnes Nutter, seeing into the future and packing 100 lbs of gunpowder and nails at her witch burning ceremony and telling the crowd to “come close”.
-> Are there any specific passages or quotes that stood out to you?
We particularly liked “Civilization is 24 hours and 2 meals away from barbarism”
-> Based on how heaven and hell are described in the book, does hell not sound like as bad of an option?
All the best musicians and artists are down in hell having a good time. As famous poet Billy Joel once said, ‘I’d rather laugh with the sinners than cry with the saints’.
-> What did you think of the heavy use of footnotes in this novel?
Feel like it could get annoying if all books did this, but it was a cool and funny change of pace.
-> What would be your present day four horseman of the apocalypses?
Personally I’d go with Comcast Customer Service, Banks, Politicians and people that knowingly sell bruised/bad fruit.
-> Did you watch the television show on Amazon? How do you think it compares to the book?
I’ve only watched a few of the episodes, but I think it’s a pretty good adaptation. The one thing I think would have been interested in seeing is Mike Myers as both Crowley & Aziraphale.
-> What did you think of the ending?
Lot of story lines and character converging at the end. Did you think if fizzled or wrapped everything up.
-> Would you recommend this book to a friend?
My guess if you like Gaiman & Pritchett it would be a resounding yes, if you have the reading level of an 8th grader (like the person writing this blog), you may pass on this one.
Did we miss some questions? Reach out to us or check out our podcast.
