1. In the opening chapter Renato spells out what is bothering him most: "How could a whole town just disappear? Why were people disappearing around him? Why did everything have to change? None of it made any sense." What answer does the book give to these questions? Do you find Shapiro's answer satisfying and true?

2. What are some of the qualities of Renato's relationship with his wife? Why is his marriage suddenly in trouble? What is your long-term prediction for their relationship?

3 What is the meaning of Renato's name?

4. Central to the plot of the book is Renato's dream. What do you think of his interpretation of his dream?

5. In the chapter "Culo" he discusses his relationship with water. What are some other things water can symbolize? How does the author's use of symbolism increase the richness of the reading experience of the novel?

6. Daily life and culture in Sant'Angelo D'Asso is much different than that of a typical American's. Discuss some of the differences.

7. One of the most wonderful parts of Renato's Luck is the compilation of his list. Do the sayings fit their character? Which is your favorite, and why? (The entire list is printed in the front of the book).

8. World War II comes up frequently throughout the book. Why? What was its impact on the lives of the people of Sant'Angelo D'Asso? Does the unexploded bomb have any symbolic meaning?

9. What does the final scene of the book say about life? How does the author tie the end of the book to the beginning? Why are the final words "For now"?

10. In the "Author's Note," Jeff Shapiro writes, "You know people better when you write them down." What does he mean?