As Billy continues to write the story of Benjy Compson, in reality his story, he suddenly realizes that “he wants to be read” and that “any writer who goes public with his work is courting danger. During the game, he explains Hobson’s Choice, which means having to “decide between taking a chance or standing pat.” In what ways does this choice manifest throughout the book?ģ. In Chapter 5, Billy plays Monopoly with his David Lockridge neighbors, the Ackermans. What do you think of this method of protecting oneself? Have you, or anyone you know, done anything similar?Ģ. When interacting with others, Billy takes the precaution of projecting his “dumb self,” comparing it to a seatbelt. The two forge ahead together, trying to put their darkest chapters behind them and ultimately find some sort of redemption.ġ. While he’s laying low, he suddenly gains a completely unexpected and unlikely companion who opens his heart and who becomes his future partner in vengeance. When the job turns out to be a setup, Billy must switch gears and rewrite his plans entirely.

We hope that these ideas will enrich your conversation and increase your enjoyment of the book.īilly Summers is a top-tier assassin with a heart of gold. The suggested questions are intended to help your reading group find new and interesting angles and topics for your discussion. This reading group guide for BILLY SUMMERS includes an introduction, discussion questions, and ideas for enhancing your book club. You won’t ever forget this stunning novel from master storyteller Stephen King…and you will never forget Billy. Part war story and part love letter to small-town America and the people who live there, this spectacular thriller of luck, fate, and love will grip readers with its electrifying narrative, as a complex antihero with one last shot at redemption must avenge the crimes of an extraordinarily evil man. Given that Billy is among the most talented snipers in the world, a decorated Iraq war vet, and a virtual Houdini when it comes to vanishing after the job is done, what could possibly go wrong? How about everything. Before he can do that though, there’s one last hit, which promises a generous payday at the end of the line even as things don’t seem quite on the level here. But now, time is catching up with him, and Billy wants out. He’s a killer for hire and the best in the business-but he’ll do the job only if the assignment is a truly bad person. Master storyteller Stephen King, whose “restless imagination is a power that cannot be contained” ( The New York Times Book Review), presents an unforgettable and relentless #1 New York Times bestseller about a good guy in a bad job.Ĭhances are, if you’re a target of Billy Summers, two immutable truths apply: You’ll never even know what hit you, and you’re really getting what you deserve.

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