The Diamond Of Darkhold

What is the significance of the novel’s title? How does “Darkhold” contrast with the name “Ember,” and how do these two different names illustrate some of the novel’s key themes and ideas?

Animals sometimes pose a challenge to the Emberites, who are not used to living among them. How are animals depicted in the text? How do various characters’ views of, and relationship with, animals change over the narrative, and why?

Lina believes the first version of the song she hears is the accurate one: “What’s hidden will come to light again / It’s far more precious than diamonds or gold” (278). What is “hidden” in this song? How does the novel explore the benefits of material goods versus more abstract goods, like knowledge?

The Diamond of Darkhold is a coming-of-age narrative for both Doon and Lina. How does the novel reflect certain key elements of coming-of-age narratives? How do both Doon and Lina mature and grow throughout the novel?

Technology, both old and new, plays a key role in the lives of the characters. How does the novel explore the nature and uses of technology? In what ways does old technology benefit the characters, and in what ways does it need to be adapted for the new era? How and why?

The novel offers a message about the societal benefits of generosity. Choose three or four scenes or situations in which this message is conveyed. How does the author communicate this message in these scenes?

Maggs is a secondary character, but she fills an important role in the text. Analyze her characterization and behavior closely. How is she characterized? What is her wider significance in the novel?

Compare and contrast The Diamond of Darkhold with the other books in the series. What key themes and ideas do all the books share? How does The Diamond of Darkhold develop and/or resolve these themes?