Apple Books and Oprah’s Book Club present Read With Us: Deacon King Kong, An Oprah’s Book Club Discussion Guide.

Oprah chose James McBride’s irreverent and big-hearted novel because she was struck by McBride’s colorful cast of characters and “how he portrays community, resilience, compassion, love.” This Oprah’s Book Club Discussion Guide includes an exclusive essay by the author, as well as an uplifting playlist he curated (did you know he’s also an accomplished jazz musician and composer?!) You’ll also find insightful discussion questions, a short history put together by the Brooklyn Public Library, and great recommendations for what to read next.

If you haven’t yet read Deacon King Kong, download it now and read with us.