The First Witch of Boston

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your overall impressions of Margaret? Do you think that she can be labeled a feminist character? Why or why not?

2. What were your favorite scenes in the novel, and why? How do those scenes fit within the novel’s broader thematic projects?

3. Have you read The Scarlet Letter (1850) or more contemporary titles such as I, Tituba, Black Witch of Salem (1992) or The Hour of the Witch (2021) that depict life for women in Puritan society? How do they compare to this novel?

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

1. Margaret refuses to let others silence her even at the risk of her life. Describe a time when you stood by your convictions despite social pressures.

2. What was your response to this novel’s depiction of Puritanism? Do you have any experience with strict interpretations of religion? How do they compare to the kind of society depicted here?

3. Alice stands by Margaret when nearly everyone else has abandoned her. Have you ever felt called to stand up for a friend or loved one facing social ostracization? What did this experience teach you about yourself or your relationship?

4. Margaret’s knowledge of herbal medicine is both valued and denigrated within her community. Do you have any areas of expertise or interest that others reject? What do you think accounts for this prejudice?

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

1. Is this novel in dialogue with the rise of the Christian Right in the United States? How might this author be commenting on current events through her writing?

2. How does this novel depict the influence of religion on early colonial life in New England?

3. What broader argument about religious extremism might the author be making in this novel?

4. Can you find points of connection between Puritan society and contemporary American society? Can you identify any lasting legacies of Puritan ideology in today’s beliefs, practices, and values?

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

1. How do Margaret’s journal entries impact the story and shape the narrative as a whole?

2. Discuss Widow Hallett’s character. What are her motivations, and how does she use her sexuality and her position within the community to further her aims?

3. How does the author engage with tension between England, Ireland, and Scotland? How does her depiction of Irish identity help paint a more accurate portrait of society both in England and the colonies? How does being Irish shape Thomas as a character?

4. Discuss the author’s depiction of Margaret and Bess, especially after Bess dies. What is the significance of Margaret’s insistence that Bess is still with her?

Encourage imaginative and creative connections to the book.

1. If this novel were adapted into a film or television serial, whom would you cast in the lead roles? How might you shape the film’s narrative to speak to current political issues and events?

2. Imagine a sequel to this novel. What happens to Thomas and Constance when they return to Maryland?