Reading Group Discussion Topics: Daddy's Girl
Here are some interesting discussion topics for a reading group focused on Daddy's Girl
The Yew Tree as a Symbol
How does the yew tree function as a central symbol in the novel?
Discuss the various meanings associated with the yew tree (life, death, immortality) and how they relate to the story's themes.
The Nature of Evil
How does the novel portray evil, particularly through characters like Archie and Rosie?
Discuss the concept of inherent evil versus learned behaviour in relation to Rosie's character.
Grief and Its Manifestations
How do different characters (e.g., Clare, Elly) deal with grief throughout the story?
Discuss the impact of unresolved grief on the characters' actions and decisions.
The Prison as a Metaphor
How does the author use the prison setting to explore broader themes in the novel?
Discuss the ways in which characters are "imprisoned" beyond the physical confines of the jail.
The Blurring of Reality and Supernatural
How does the author blend realistic and supernatural elements in the story?
Discuss the effectiveness of this approach in creating horror and suspense.
Motherhood and Its Challenges
How does the novel portray motherhood, particularly through Elly's relationship with Rosie?
Discuss the societal expectations of motherhood versus the realities presented in the book.
The Role of History and Memory
How does the history of the prison and the yew tree influence the present-day events in the story?
Discuss how personal and collective memories shape the characters' actions and perceptions.
Moral Ambiguity and Difficult Choices
How does the novel present morally ambiguous situations, particularly through Clare's actions?
Discuss the concept of justified evil in the context of the story's events.
The Power of Fear
How does fear drive the actions of various characters throughout the novel?
Discuss the different types of fear presented (e.g., fear of the unknown, fear of oneself) and their impacts.
Identity and Self-Discovery
How do characters like Clare and Elly struggle with their identities throughout the story?
Discuss how traumatic events shape or reshape the characters' sense of self.
The Concept of Justice
How does the novel explore ideas of justice, both within and outside the legal system?
Discuss whether any characters truly receive justice by the end of the story.
The Use of Multiple Perspectives
How does the author's use of multiple viewpoints contribute to the storytelling?
Discuss the effectiveness of this technique in building suspense and revealing character motivations.
The Role of Institutions
How does the novel portray institutions like the prison system and social services?
Discuss the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of these systems as presented in the story.
The Influence of the Past on the Present
How do past events and decisions continue to impact characters in the present?
Discuss the theme of inescapable history in relation to both individual characters and the setting.
The Nature of Humanity
How does the novel explore what it means to be human, particularly in contrast to characters like Archie and Rosie?
Discuss how the story challenges or reinforces readers' perceptions of humanity.
