The Blue Sword

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How would you describe the tone and atmosphere of the novel? Was it more of a classic epic fantasy, a coming-of-age tale, or something else entirely? 

2. How did you feel about the blend of political intrigue, personal destiny, and magic in the book? Did any of these elements overshadow the others, or did they work well together?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Have you ever felt like an outsider in a new place, the way Harry did among the Hillfolk? How did your own experience compare to Harry’s journey toward belonging and acceptance?

2. Harry faces several moments where she must decide whether to follow instinct or authority. Have you ever had to make a similar decision? What did you choose, and how did the outcome compare to Harry’s?

3. What (or who) did the friendships in the book remind you of in your own life? Which of those relationships felt most familiar or most different from your own friendships?

4. Harry often learns by doing, rather than through formal instruction. What have you learned through immersion or challenge rather than conventional teaching?

Examine the book’s relevance to societal issues, historical events, or cultural themes.

1. How does the story reflect ideas about colonialism or cultural imperialism, particularly through the relationship between the Homelanders and the Hillfolk? What parallels do you see between the fictional setting and real-world history?

2. In what ways does gender play a role in the expectations placed on characters like Harry, Corlath, or Kentarre? How does the story challenge or reinforce traditional gender norms?

3. Do you think Damar’s relationship with the Homelanders by the end of the book reflects optimism or realism? What commentary might McKinley be making on post-colonial relationships?

Dive into the book’s structure, characters, themes, and symbolism.

1. Discuss the narrative arc of Harry’s journey. How does McKinley structure the novel to emphasize Harry’s growth? Does the arc follow traditional hero’s journey elements?

2. How does McKinley use language and description to distinguish between cultures? What choices such as naming conventions, dialogue, and/or imagery help define the differences between the Homelanders and the Hillfolk?

3. Discuss the role of setting in shaping the characters’ identities. How do the desert, Hills, and City each influence who Harry becomes?

4. Compare and contrast The Blue Sword with its prequel, The Hero and the Crown (1984). What key themes and ideas do the two novels share? How does one illuminate the other?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. Invent a Damarian folktale or myth that might be passed down about Harimad-sol and the battle at Madamer Gate. What themes or lessons would the story emphasize?

2. Imagine you could speak to Harry at three different points in the novel—when she first arrives at the Residency, when she defeats Thurra, and after she marries Corlath. What advice, encouragement, or questions would you give her at each moment?

3. Imagine a scene where Harry returns to the Homeland after many years. How might she be received?