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Reading Group Guide

Discussion Questions

The House of Gentle Men: A Novel

1. Would you describe the tone of the novel as "fablelike"? If not, how would you describe it? If so, what narrative techniques were used to accomplish this? Was it effective?

2. The House of Gentle Men is rich with symbolism. Discuss the use of symbolism in the novel and cite examples.

3. Do you think that the women and men in the novel were too clearly depicted as being either victims or victimizers? Why or why not?

4. Sexual intercourse is not allowed in The House of Gentle Men. Are there any positive portrayals of sexual relationships? Why or why not?

5. Do you think that all sins are deserving of forgiveness? Were you surprised that Charlotte forgave Justin? Did you want her to? Did you empathize with Justin?

6. Mr. Olen founded the House of Gentle Men in order to atone for the sin of neglecting his wife. In light of this fact, why is his relationship with his daughter and son ironic?

7. Compare and contrast Milo and Charlotte's relationship with Louise and Benjamin's relationship. How did these siblings help each other to heal?

8. Were you surprised by the way the novel ended? Do you think that Justin, Charlotte, Daniel and Milo survived? Would it have been possible for them to lead a normal life together?

The House of Gentle Men: A Novel
by Kathy Hepinstall

  • Publication Date: February 1, 2001
  • Genres: Fiction, Thriller
  • Paperback: 352 pages
  • Publisher: Harper Perennial
  • ISBN-10: 0380809362
  • ISBN-13: 9780380809363