Historical Fiction Book Club - Past Titles: "When the Men Were Gone" by Marjorie Herrera Lewis

1. Historical Context:

   • How does the novel depict the impact of World War II on the home front, particularly in small-town Texas? In what ways do the characters grapple with the absence of men in their community?

2. Gender Roles and Expectations:

   • Explore the theme of gender roles and societal expectations during the 1940s. How do characters like Tylene navigate and challenge traditional views of women's roles in society?

3. Tylene Wilson's Character:

   • Discuss Tylene Wilson as the central character. How does she evolve throughout the novel, and what challenges does she face as she takes on the role of a football coach? In what ways does she defy societal expectations?

4. Football as a Symbol:

   • Football serves as a central theme in the novel. How is football used as a symbol, and what does it represent for the characters and the community? How does it contribute to the story's overall narrative?

5. Community Dynamics:

   • Examine the dynamics within the community of Brownwood. How do different characters respond to Tylene's coaching role, and how does the community as a whole react to the changes brought about by the war?

6. Friendship and Camaraderie:

   • Explore the friendships and camaraderie depicted in the novel, both among the women in the story and within the football team. How do these relationships contribute to the resilience of the characters?

7. Resilience and Overcoming Adversity:

   • Discuss the theme of resilience and the characters' ability to overcome adversity. How do individuals in the novel confront challenges, and what strengths do they draw upon during difficult times?

8. Social and Racial Issues:

   • The novel touches on social and racial issues of the time. How are these issues portrayed, and what role do they play in shaping the characters' experiences and interactions?

9. Sense of Community:

   • Consider the sense of community portrayed in the novel. How does the community come together during a time of war, and how does Tylene contribute to fostering a sense of unity?

10. Legacy and Inspiration:

    • Discuss the lasting impact of Tylene Wilson's story. In what ways does her experience inspire future generations, and what is the novel's message about breaking barriers and pursuing one's passion?

11. Writing Style:

    • Explore Marjorie Herrera Lewis's writing style. How does her prose contribute to the atmosphere of the novel, and how does she bring the historical setting to life?

12. Personal Connections:

    • Consider the personal connections readers might have with the characters or themes in the novel. How do the characters' experiences resonate with contemporary issues or universal human experiences?

Tylene Wilson, the real-life inspiration behind "When the Men Were Gone" by Marjorie Herrera Lewis, was a pioneering figure in the world of high school football coaching during World War II. While specific details about her life may not be as extensively documented as those of more public figures, here is a brief overview of Tylene Wilson based on historical records and the novel:

Background:

• Tylene Wilson was born in Texas, and little is known about her early life and background.

Football Coaching Career:

• During World War II, when many men were serving in the military, Tylene Wilson stepped into the role of a high school football coach at Brownwood High School in Brownwood, Texas.

Coaching at Brownwood High School:

• Tylene Wilson coached the Brownwood High School football team during the 1940s when the shortage of male coaches led to women taking on coaching roles in various sports.

Challenges and Achievements:

• As depicted in "When the Men Were Gone," Tylene faced numerous challenges and skepticism from both within the community and the broader societal expectations of gender roles at the time.
• Despite the obstacles, Tylene's coaching tenure was noteworthy, and her determination left a lasting impact on the players and the community.

Legacy:

• Tylene Wilson's legacy lies in her pioneering efforts as a female football coach during a time when such roles were uncommon and often met with resistance.
• Her story, as portrayed in Marjorie Herrera Lewis's novel, serves as a testament to resilience, breaking gender barriers, and pursuing one's passion despite societal expectations.

It's important to note that while Tylene Wilson's story is based on historical events, some aspects may be fictionalized or adapted for literary purposes in the novel. The historical documentation of individuals in less prominent roles, especially during specific time periods, can be limited. Tylene Wilson's impact on her community and the world of high school football coaching, however, remains a significant part of her legacy.

Marjorie Herrera Lewis is the author of "When the Men Were Gone," a historical novel based on the true story of Tylene Wilson, a woman who became a high school football coach during World War II. Here is a brief overview of Marjorie Herrera Lewis's background:

Background:

• Marjorie Herrera Lewis is known for her work as an author and has gained recognition for her historical fiction.

Career:

• "When the Men Were Gone" is Marjorie Herrera Lewis's debut novel, and it tells the inspiring and true story of Tylene Wilson's coaching experience during a time when men were away serving in the military.

Inspirations and Motivations:

• Lewis was inspired to write the novel after learning about Tylene Wilson's remarkable story and her role as a female football coach during a period when women were not commonly found in such positions.

Writing Style:

• Lewis's writing style in "When the Men Were Gone" reflects her ability to bring historical events to life through storytelling, capturing the challenges and triumphs of individuals during a crucial period in American history.

Legacy:

• While Marjorie Herrera Lewis may be more recently recognized for her work as an author, her contribution to literature includes bringing to light the compelling and often overlooked stories of women who made significant contributions during historical moments.