More Information: BarnesandNoble.com
Discussion Posts: Hitchhiker’s Guide Post Category
Discussion Period: March 25 – March 31, 2009

Discussion Questions:

1. Hitchhiker has been described as a parody of government, politics, and big business. You might want to talk about how it parodies those institutions? Or does that kind of question ruin the fun of a hilarious romp through space?
2. The two most famous icons from the series are the towel…and the phrase, “don’t panic.” What do you think makes these so famous?
3. A more fruitful discussion might revolve around the way Hitchhiker series has permeated our popular culture. Some refer to its impact as “hitchhiker-mania,” a phenomenon that has spun off a movie, TV series (with Stephen Hawkins, no less), and merchandise (towels and action figures). There are frequent references in rock, videogames, websites, and even an online translation service called Babel Fish! What is it about the series that inspires that kind of…following?
4. Why did you want to read The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy? Did it meet your expectations? Why/why not?
5. Is Arthur Dent a hero? If so, how? How would you describe his character?
6. Compare the outlooks of the five principal characters – Arthur Dent, Ford Prefect, Zaphod Beeblebrox, Trillian and Marvin. How do they view the world? What are they looking for in life?
7. What do you think Douglas Adams is suggesting with the number 42 being the answer to Life, the Universe and Everything? Why do you think the search for the question was repeatedly frustrated?
8. What would you say is the Ultimate Question? How have you attempted to answer the question over the years? Do you think it matters whether or not there is any ultimate meaning in life? Why/why not?