ICE Breakers
THE PERSIAN
BOOK OF THE MOMENT
Do you think that the generational and historical cycle of violence is one of the main problems which needs to be overcome in the conflict between Israel and Iran?
Why do you think Roya was able to trust Kam?
Do you think Kam’s motivations as the protagonist were clear? Could you understand why he was able to change his ways?
Why do you think Israelis are able to infiltrate Iranian Society so successfully?
At the same time, how is Iran able to stubbornly prevail?
Do you think McCloskey has achieved a good balance in understanding and appreciating both sides?
Have you read McCloskey’s previous spy thrillers and if so, how do they compare?
Have you listened to McCloskey’s podcast – The Rest is Classified?
THE GLASSMAKER
MISSED OPPORTUNITY
Did you enjoy Orsola’s adventures and which aspect did you enjoy the most - Orsola’s romantic affairs, island life on Murano versus the city experience on Venice? Or her overcoming events and tragedies?
Bead-making enabled Orsola to set up a successful business in Venice. This is based on a little known true story. What others stories, if any, did this remind you of, that have gone under the radar?
Orsola's mentor, Maria Barovier was based on a pioneering Venetian glass artist from Murano. Do you think this is an untapped character in the novel or did you appreciate Orsola’s own story as a woman who through skipping time achieved female empowerment?
Did you enjoy the introduction of famous characters moving in and out of the story, such as Casanova and would you have welcomed more from others mentioned such Napoleon’s wife, Empress Joséphine.
How did you feel about the concept of ‘skipping time’ and magical realism? Did this devise work for you and your book club? Was this a good idea?
How does this novel compare to ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ and other historical stories that embrace magical realism?
THE CORRESPONDENT
Did your book club enjoy Sybil's life of letters and do you think this was an enjoyable and different novel experience?
Have you discovered any letters left within your own family and friends that have prompted a forgotten story? And has it encouraged you to read between the lines or explained other actions and memories?
Which other female protagonist does Sybil remind you of?
Did you enjoy Sybil’s love interest with Theodore Lübeck and Mick Watts the retired Texan lawyer. Were you rooting for one of these as the best suitor for her?
Evans studied creative writing in Dublin with tutors that included Claire Keegan, a writer that the Den has admired and enjoyed. Were you surprised that this book has been written by a young writer in her thirties?
What do think Evans will write next?
THE WILD CARD