Room, by Emma Donoghue

Characters

Ma Jack Stillborn baby girl   Old Nick   Grandma Steppa/Leo Grandfather   Paul – brother Deana – wife Bronwyn   Officer Oh   Dr. Clay Noreen

For Discussion:

1. Discuss Ma and her rearing of Jack in Room.  Did she do a good job?  What was the wisest thing that she did?  How did you feel about her extended nursing of Jack?

2. Discuss the various characters and how they reacted to Jack:

• Grandma
• Steppa
• Grandfather (Can you understand his having to leave?)
• Officer Oh
• Dr. Clay and Noreen

3. Jack cut his hair on his own; no one suggested that he do so.  Why do you think he made that decision?

4. Can you understand Ma’s trying to take her own life?  What did she think would happen to Jack?

5. Would you have done anything different to help Jack’s entry into the world?

6. Did you like the ending?  Was it effective?

7. How do you think Ma and Jack will make out in the world? 

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