What might the title A Cure for Dreams mean?

Many of the references to things and people might be unfamiliar to the modern reader. In your opinion, how important is recognizing references to popular radio programs of the 1930s to understanding the overall plot? Do you think that taking the time to research these references enriches the reader's experience?

A Cure for Dreams is a work of historical fiction. While the main characters are fictional, many of the events mentioned in the novel are real. How does knowing that much of the novel is based on accurate historical detail affect your enjoyment of the story?

Herman displays a great deal of enthusiasm about going to war, but Betty sees nothing positive in the event. How do their differing reactions to the same event, the outbreak of war, illustrate their differing levels of maturity?

Some...