The Next Person You Meet in Heaven

Annie believes her life is a series of endless mistakes. What does Annie learn about these mistakes when she dies, and how does she learn this? How does this connect to the book’s major themes, such as human connections or the purpose of suffering?

How do Annie’s experiences in the afterlife demonstrate the idea that all humans are connected? How does this connection lend to the idea of purpose behind all things?

Unlike the first novel in the series, Annie is revived after meeting her five people. Why did Albom make the choice to bring Annie back to life? What does this say about Annie, particularly in comparison to Eddie?

Examine Lorraine and Annie’s relationship from each of their points of view. How did the accident shape the trajectory of their relationship? What does their meeting in the afterlife accomplish?

How does Albom illustrate death as an important part of the life cycle? Use examples from the text.

The accident at Ruby Pier affects Annie’s life in a number of ways, but it also had an impact on many others. Choose two of these people and compare how the accident affected them.

How does Albom’s use of color imagery throughout the novel serve to illustrate mood, setting, and the progression of the plot? Use examples from the text.

Why does Annie need to make peace with herself before returning to Earth? How does each person she meets in heaven help her achieve this?