Questions About The Secret Scripture (McNulty Family)

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Answered Questions (6)

What are some essential questions to ask about Secret Scripture by Sebastian Barry in a book club discussion?

Rushabh Mehta 1. What is the meaning of truth?
2. What is the value of life?
3. Gender, Religious relations
4. Redemption…more1. What is the meaning of truth?
2. What is the value of life?
3. Gender, Religious relations
4. Redemption(less)

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I haven't read this book, but is the character, Roseanne McNulty, an allegory for Ireland itself? That's what I gather from the synopsis. If answering would result in spoilers, then I guess I'd rather not know.

Carol Friel The book certainly presents various characteristics - unpleasant ones - that may be typical of the Irish at a certain period of time (the 20th century…moreThe book certainly presents various characteristics - unpleasant ones - that may be typical of the Irish at a certain period of time (the 20th century).
I would not call Roseanne an allegory of Ireland but would call her a representative of those who have suffered from the prejudice and judgmentalism that have been somewhat rampant in Irish history and the Irish character.(less)

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This question contains spoilers... (view spoiler)

Samantha

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Is there a lot of swearing or sex in this book? I"m thinking of recommending it for my book club, but there are several people in my club who might not appreciate that.

Rushabh Mehta A part of the brilliance of the book is how the book never mentions anything negative in specific, but just refers to it. For example, to indicate tha…moreA part of the brilliance of the book is how the book never mentions anything negative in specific, but just refers to it. For example, to indicate that the main character was about to have ... , Barry writes, "He put his leg up against mine. I did not mind that."(less)

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What age audience would you recommend this for?