Klara and the Sun - pages 167 to 222

Summary of pages 167 to 222

During a visit to the city, Klara accompanies Josie and her parents to Mr Capaldi's studio. While Josie prepares for her sitting, Klara completes a questionnaire designed by Mr Capaldi. Klara observes the tension between the Mother and Father regarding the portrait process. She secretly enters Mr Capaldi's studio (accessed via a Purple Door) and discovers the 'portrait' is actually an Artificial Friend designed to look exactly like Josie, intended as a 'continuation' should Josie not survive her illness. This discovery happens amidst arguments between the parents and Mr Capaldi about the ethics and feasibility of the project. The Father, particularly distressed after seeing the Josie AF, leaves abruptly with the real Josie.

Left with the Mother, Klara learns the full extent of the plan: she is expected not merely to train the new Josie AF, but to become her by transferring her consciousness and learning, effectively continuing Josie. The Mother pleads with Klara to commit to this, revealing her fear of losing another daughter after Sal and expressing doubt about whether she could truly accept the continuation. While parked outside a cafe where Josie and the Father have gone, the Mother confesses her anxieties and desperation, promising Klara immense love if she succeeds. Later, the Father returns alone, having been asked by the Mother to leave her and Josie. He confides in Klara his deep unease with Capaldi's project and questions whether Josie's unique 'heart' can truly be replicated.

Discussion questions for pages 167 to 222

1. Josie has a bad dream and cries. Klara tries to help, but Josie doesn't want her comfort. What does this teach Klara?

2. What drives the mother's decision to secretly pursue creating a replacement Josie? Is it love, denial, or something else?