1. THE PREDICTIONS begins with the narrator’s assertion that at Gaialands she was raised “to believe in freedom --- personal, societal, spiritual.” But this freedom is not always easily won. Can you think of some ways in which Gaialands is not a particularly “free” place?

2. Have you known a person like Shakti in your life? What causes some people to be so influential and charismatic? Do you think Shakti was a positive or negative influence on the children?

3. Fritz’s disappearance is never resolved. What do you think happened to him and why?

4. Lukas and Poppy’s relationship has significant ups and downs. At times he seems extremely toxic but then he often redeems himself. Ultimately, do you think Lukas is a good fit for Poppy? Why or why not?

5. How could Poppy’s life have been different if she’d never received her Prediction? Can you think of a moment in your own life that ended up changing the course of things irrevocably?

6. Poppy’s impression of Gaialands when she returns with her own son is very different from that of her childhood. What are some of the most significant shifts in her feelings and opinions about the place and the way of life?

7. The novel’s narrative follows its characters through many years of fads, fashions and musical styles. How does the author use these changing trends to reflect the characters’ actions and states of mind?

8. The author raises many interesting questions about fate and free will. Do you believe in fate? Why or why not? Can free will overcome destiny?