Ocean Raton Suggested Discussion Guide Questions
In Ocean Raton, John Manrique delivers an uncompromising, timely, satirical look at South Florida culture by way of the recent real estate bubble burst. Use these book club discussion questions to explore the nature of Manrique's novel, characters, and statement their attitudes and actions make.
Spoiler Warning: These book club questions reveal details about Ocean Raton. Finish the book before reading on.
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1) What were your initial impressions of Terri Winston? How did your attitude toward her shift throughout Ocean Raton?
2) Discuss the setting of South Florida as if it were one of the characters in the book. What were your opinions as Manrique described the landscape and the region's history?
3) Which character do you recognize/identify most from your daily life?
4) How was Terri different from Candida? How are they similar?
5) As you read about "Option Two" and the ensuing events, what reactions did you have to the plan? How true-to-life or far-fetched did the scenario strike you?
6) How did Manrique's descriptions of the factors leading to the real estate bubble burst compare to what you previously believed? Do you agree or disagree with the author's assertions?
7) Which character most surprised you? Why?
8) How did you think the story would end?
9) Discuss your reactions to the ultimate resolution. Did the ends justify the means?
10) Throughout Ocean Raton, Manrique puts recent events in the context of history. Would an awareness of the past by Buyers, Sellers, The Media, and Investors made any difference in the real estate market's fate?
11) Define the role and responsibility each of the following played in bringing on the real estate bubble burst:
- The Real Estate Industry (builders, developers, real estate agents, lenders, etc.)
- South Florida Culture & Society
- Investment Buyers
- The Media
- Wall Street
- Local Government & Municipalities
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