Need guidance on what to discuss in The Precious Pachyderm with your book club? Here’s a reader’s guide to help you.

1. The Precious Pachyderm begins with Mrs. Fiske consulting with the astrologer Evangeline Adams about problems with her husband. Mary Adler, the secretary transcribing the session, then recalls leaving her last job due to inappropriate advances from her boss. What do we learn about Miss Adams, Mrs. Fiske, Mary and her coworker Clara and their daily lives as women? Were they typical for their time and circumstances? How have gender roles changes since the 1920s?

2. What role does Mr. Jordan play? Who is in charge and in control of the workplace?

3. What were your first impressions of Swami Puri and the monks? What is your explanation of Mary and Clara’s transcendental experience with them?

4. What needs does Evangeline Adams fill for her clients? Does her faith in astrology help them? Why do you think she’s so popular?

5. There were no cell phones or Internet in 1926, when the book is set. How is the use of land-line telephones and a switchboard different than what we use today?

6. What do you think of Evangeline’s employee Jesse? Is he good at his job? How did his experiences in World War I affect him?

7. In the story, there are questions about whether the missing ruby has metaphysical powers. Why do you think people are so eager to find it? Can we put a price on things of spiritual value?

8. Mr. Holkar is a wealthy man from India. Did his race or background affect the way people spoke about him? How did you feel about the way the landlord referred to Dorothy, the black receptionist? Why is his opinion of Holkar different?

10. Would Miss Adams approve of Mary and Clara entering Mr. Jordan’s office? Are they justified in doing so?

11. What did you learn about the relationships of employer and employee from Evangeline and her assistants? From Mr. Jordan and his staff? From Mrs. Fiske and her employees?