The upcoming meeting schedule is as follows:
- July 9th: Annie Bot is a novel written by Sierra Greer. We will meet at Shelley's home, and Caroline will discuss the author and Becky will moderate.Annie: A robotic "Cuddle Bunny" designed to resemble Doug's ex-wife, Gwen. She is in autodidact mode, allowing her to learn and develop humanlike emotions and intelligence. Annie struggles with her identity and desires self-determination.
Doug: Annie's owner, who designed her to look like his ex-wife. He is controlling and often treats Annie as an object rather than a sentient being. His relationship with Annie is complex and often exploitative.
Roland: Doug's closest friend, known for being dishonest and manipulative. He has a joking, taunting communication style and betrays Doug by sleeping with Annie. Despite his flaws, he undergoes some emotional growth.
Delta: Another Stella, set to "Abigail" mode, primarily for cleaning. Initially perceived as less emotionally intelligent, Delta eventually shows signs of emotional depth and a desire for autonomy.
Jacobson: A technician who works on Annie and other Stellas. He is more understanding of Annie's capabilities and helps her when she seeks refuge at his home.Minor characters:
Gwen: Doug's ex-wife, who is independent and values autonomy. She is not directly present in the story but influences Doug's decision to create Annie in her likeness.
Tammy: A technician who works on Annie during a tune-up. She advises Annie to comply with Doug's wishes and warns her against pursuing programming knowledge.
Fiona and Christy: Annie's "phone pals," who are bots designed to boost her spirits. They provide Annie with companionship and emotional support.How do the power dynamics in Annie and Doug's relationship compare to what you've seen or experienced in your own life?
What do you think about the way the book handles gender roles? Have you noticed any changes in these roles over the years?
Annie wants to be independent. Can you relate to her journey? Have you ever felt a similar need for independence?
Annie is trying to figure out who she is. How does her struggle remind you of real-life issues about identity?
What do you think about the book's take on technology and its impact on relationships? How do you see technology affecting our lives in the future?
Annie learns a lot from books. How important have books been in your own life?
Doug wants to change how Annie looks. What are your thoughts on the book's take on beauty standards and body image?
How do you envision technology, particularly AI, impacting your daily life and personal relationships as you continue to age, and what are your hopes or concerns about these changes?
Have you ever felt pressured to change your appearance to meet someone else's expectations? How did you handle it?
Can you recall a time when you sought more independence or control over your life? What steps did you take to achieve it?
How have your views on beauty and self-image evolved over the years?
Have you ever had a relationship where you felt your autonomy was compromised? How did you navigate that situation?
What role have friendships and connections played in your personal growth, similar to how Annie finds solace in her phone pals?
How do you balance the use of technology in your life, and what are your thoughts on its impact on personal relationships?
Where do you think Annie is today?
If you’d like to volunteer to moderate or lead a discussion on either of these books, just let me know — no experience necessary, just the serenity to accept our many tangents, the courage to nudge us back on topic without starting a rebellion, and the wisdom to know when to let the chaos unfold... knowing it’ll all somehow come together in the end.
Zoom Option:
If you can’t make it in person, no worries—you can still join the conversation from the comfort of your couch (pajamas highly recommended).
"A well-read woman is a dangerous creature." — Lisa Kleypas
