Questions About The Good People

by Hannah Kent (Goodreads Author)

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Answered Questions (8)

Does anyone have thoughts on the modern name for the illness that afflicted Micheal in this novel? I read through some of the references Hannah Kent put at the end of the novel and came up with 'hypothyroidism'. Just curious if I'm right or if Hannah herself has talked about it anywhere?

P.D.R. Lindsay Heard Hannah Kent talk on this recently. She said she tried to make Michael not fit any known kind of illness because she didn't want readers to be sa…moreHeard Hannah Kent talk on this recently. She said she tried to make Michael not fit any known kind of illness because she didn't want readers to be saying 'oh he's got XYZ'. She wanted it to be a mystery to readers so that readers would wonder.(less)

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I am looking for a really good cant put down book. Any thoughts?

Kiki The News of the World by Paulette Jiles. If you like atmospheric writing that puts you truly in a place and great characters, it's great!…moreThe News of the World by Paulette Jiles. If you like atmospheric writing that puts you truly in a place and great characters, it's great!(less)

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HI :) Did any readers really enjoy this book ? My book club has it for this month?

Wendy It does transport you to a very different time, the hardship of life and the way they cling to the traditions and superstitions. I found it a bit slow…moreIt does transport you to a very different time, the hardship of life and the way they cling to the traditions and superstitions. I found it a bit slow. It is sad and a bit dark in places, but a fascinating read.(less)

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I have just read this book. I believe Michael was normal at birth so Cerebral Palsy is not what I imagine he suffered from. It is my belief that due to the starvation of the people of Ireland at that time.Michael's mother was unable to give him the proper nutrition from her milk and so he became dehydrated and starved causing brain damage to occur. The damage isn't apparent straight away but comes to the fore later?

Susan I think you might be right. I don't have a better explanation.…moreI think you might be right. I don't have a better explanation.(less)

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This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)

Linda O'Sullivan My understanding was that the priest gave her enough food for her journey back to Annamore and upon seeing the starving child decided on giving her fo…moreMy understanding was that the priest gave her enough food for her journey back to Annamore and upon seeing the starving child decided on giving her food away. Without sustenance she realised she would not make it back to her mother and siblings, which is why she put herself up for work again. Hard to imagine those times and how difficult it would have been. Hope that helps! (less)

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