Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- Why does the author choose to use flashbacks so often in the book? How does this change the way we read the text?
- How would the story be different if narrated from Rose's point of view?
- What is the purpose of the songs, nursery rhymes, and poems included in the book? Why are these important to Briony?
- How does Briony's story relate to that of an abused child? In what ways are her scars still evident even after her stepmother is gone?
- Often characters can be portrayed as simple and one sided or complex and complicated. In the relationship between Briony and Cecil, are their roles and conflicts simple or is their relationship more complex?
- How would Briony's story be different if Eldric hadn't come to town?
- Could this story take place in modern day today? What elements would be similar or different? Would the characters be the same?
- If Briony, Eldric, and Rose were to apply to college today, what would their majors be and why?
- Briony's self hatred, angry ramblings, and confusing memories have caused people to claim the narration is off putting. What are your thoughts about her narration style?