Discussion of Closing Time almost inevitably begins, as is revealed in most of the reviews of the novel, by comparing it to its famed predecessor.

Groups might enjoy noting which preoccupations sixty-eight-year-old Yossarian retains from the time when he was thirty-five. Conversely, they can note the ways Yossarian's character has changed. Discussion of which novel readers prefer and why can also be quite illuminating.

Heller's social satire presents many topics for discussion: Among them are the problems of the decay of inner cities, of homelessness, of increased materialism in American society, and of the threat of a nuclear holocaust.

Heller's portrayals of secret agents, government weapons contractors, and even the President should evoke strong responses.

More personal issues to consider are Heller's attitudes towards marriage, parent-child relationships, and responses to retirement, aging, and medical care in the 1990s.

1. Is Closing Time truly a sequel to Catch-...