ICE Breakers
A VERY ENGLISH SCANDAL
Book Of The MOMENT
How aware were you of the scandal and the case against Jeremy Thorpe and the political landscape around this time?
Do you think much has changed in politics since the 1970s?
Would you consider John Preston's analysis as fair and balanced?
How did the author make this a ‘killer’ read? How does it compare to some of his other books (eg Fall - The Mystery of Robert Maxwell, The Dig)
The TV adaptation with Hugh Grant was highly acclaimed and publicised and would you recommend reading the book first?
ON CHESIL BEACH
MISSED OPPORTUNITY
Do you think it was only the sexual relationship, which caused Edward and Florence difficulties, or do you think there were other problems in their relationship?
Do you think any of these sexual repressions still resonate today and how easy did you find it to relate to their dilemma?
How did Edward and Florence’s different backgrounds affect their views on life?
Do you respect Edward for his decision?
Do you feel sympathy for the characters in equal measure?
How did their honeymoon being on Chesil Beach enhance the story?
If you have seen the film adaptation, how do you think it compared to the book?
THE YEAR OF THE RUNAWAYS
THE WILD CARD
Which ‘runaway’ did you find the most interesting story to follow - Tochi, Avtar or Randeep? And why?
Were scam marriages, selling organs, falsifying passports excusable and did the author question your own moral compass?
What is the role of religion in this novel? Is it a good thing?
Did you enjoy the narrative style of story-telling?
The novel has been described as ‘beautiful and brilliant?’. What makes it beautiful? How is it brilliant?
Can you draw any comparisons with other books?
And as a Wild Card you may not like it? And if not, why not?