May & June's Book - A Chance in the World

"A Chance in the World" by Steve Pemberton

This book really moved the members of our group, most of whom couldn't put it down.  Our interest was magnified by the fact that the events in the book took place fifteen miles away in New Bedford, MA: a place with which we are all quite familiar.  This makes the book even more powerful for us, since we all prefer to believe that such things happen elsewhere - not in our own backyard.

Discussion questions:

• What was the best part of this book for you?
• What disturbed you the most?
• Who was the best "parent figure" in this book?  The worst?
• Who bears the greatest responsibility for failing to protect Steve during his childhood?
• What do you think was the greatest source of strength for Steve?
• What role did literacy play in Steve's life?
• What role did poverty play in Steve's life?
• What really defines a home for a child?  What defines a parent?
• Was Steve "successful" in reuniting his family or not?  Why do you think so?
• Which people were "the face of Christ" for Steve during his life?
• How has this book changed your perspective?
• How is God calling you to respond to the events described in this book?

After reading this book, you may want to watch the following clip by Steve Pemberton as an inspirational and motivational speaker in his adult life: