Discussion Questions - The Man of Wind and Moss

These suggested questions are to spark conversation and enhance your reading of The Man of Wind and Moss.

1. The titular Man of Wind and Moss is said to bring direction to those who are lost, whether it is literally in his woods, or metaphorically in life. Why do you think the Man is drawn to Marco and his friends?
2. Different women play dynamic roles in Marco’s life. How would you define his relationships to Sasha, Pansy, and Paula respectively? What directions do you think each of them pull him in?
3. Marco also struggles in his relationships with his family, particularly his brother Monchito and their father. How do you think the portrayal of family relates to greater commentary about Latino masculinity?
4. At times, Sasha, Marco, and Monchito each feel like outsiders in understanding their own personal identity. How does the racial and cultural make-up of the communities they take part in affect their sense of self? How does that compare to characters like Dean, Pansy, Doll, or Keith?
5. Through acquiring items like the moka pot and the various occult goods, Marco tries to build up a sense of belonging. Have you ever bought something to validate being part of a particular culture? Do you relate to Marco in his emotional attachment to certain items?
6. How do you feel about the book’s depiction of witches?
7. The book comments on how Marco and his peers feel frustration towards older generations, like Paula, Christopher, or their teachers, who all seem to have more opportunities than they did. Why do you think they believe that? Do you agree?
8. How effective is the use of nature horror in the book? What do you think of the book’s idea that Mother Nature is evil and violent?
9. At a key moment in the novel, Monchito leaves a voice message about caring for an aging parrot in his home; at the end of the novel, Marco also recalls the idea of a parrot’s flocking call. What do you think the author is trying to convey with these moments?
10. The theme of disconnection is prevalent throughout this novel: disconnected from their sense of culture, from gaining adult responsibilities or opportunities, from loving relationships with other people. Which characters do you think undergo this feeling the most? When was the last time you felt this way?
11. By the end of the novel, were you happy for Marco? Do you think he achieved the goals he set for himself at the beginning of the story? Why or why not?