ICE Breakers
THE UNWILDING
BOOK OF THE MOMENT
As a writer, in her parents’ eyes, Zoe betrays their trust with her debut novel. Etta and Malachy believe she will be doing the same with their family. Do you think this is a trait of writers and do you think this is a betrayal or writing about something familiar to them?
As the youngest of four, Nemony often feels like the outsider. Do you think this is often true for the youngest child in a larger family?
What did you think of the final section imagined through the eyes of Tree?
Why do you think we never learn about the circumstances of Don and Lydia being together?
Do you think Lydia would have wanted her life before marriage exposed?
Why do you think Zoe really chose to live in Blackheath?
Kemp says that her story is about siblings loss and the versions of stories we tell ourselves – can you relate to this?
Have you read ‘Nightingale' by Marina Kemp and if so how did this compare?
THE RAZOR'S EDGE
MISSED OPPORTUNITY
Which character did you empathise with the most, Larry, Isabel or Gray?
Do you think Larry’s ‘loafing’ was a form of PTSD following his war experiences? And do you think his approach to life - educating himself with philosophy books and life experiences was admirable or foolhardy?
Larry has a small inheritance which gives him the privilege of choice to travel and consider alternative life experiences. Does his safety net make his choices less courageous?
Do you think Maugham’s exploration of spiritual awakening was ahead of his time and do you think ‘The Razor’s Edge’ is relevant for readers today?
Do you think this novel is an insight into Maugham himself and how does this book compare to other titles that you may have read by the writer?
LONDON FALLING
Why do you think a nineteen year old liked hanging out with middle aged men?
Why do you think Zac was able to hoodwink everyone?
Can you believe it is this easy to create a fictitious identity?
Why do you think Zac’s parents didn’t try and help their son earlier as his behaviour became more irratic? Do you think this forms part of their desperation to now seek the truth?
Why do you think Akbar Shamji has been able to disassociate himself from any further investigations going forward?
After reading Keefe’s book, what verdict did your book club reach?
Have you read any other books by Keefe and if so how did they compare?
THE WILD CARD