Better Than the Movies

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of death.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What impact did the novel’s numerous references to classic romantic comedies have on your reading experience? Did they enhance your understanding of Liz’s character or distract from the story?

2. Better Than the Movies plays with several rom-com tropes including enemies-to-lovers and fake relationships. Compare Lynn Painter’s approach to these tropes with similar young adult novels like Jenny Han’s To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.

3. Did you find Liz’s journey from idealistic romantic to someone who appreciates authentic connections believable?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. What books, movies, or activities help you feel connected to loved ones in your life?

2. Consider the novel’s depiction of grief and the way it affects one’s everyday life. Have you ever noticed grief or other strong emotions influencing your choices in unexpected ways?

3. Liz struggles with accepting Helena in her mother’s place. Reflect on a time when you’ve had to adapt to an uncomfortable change in your family or close relationships.

4.