The Secret Place

What broader arguments does the novel make about conformity and adolescent culture? How do the girls in Joanne’s and Holly’s groups struggle against the confines of what is considered normal or acceptable for girls of their age?

Research the other novels in this series. How do characters like Holly, who also make an appearance in previous books, grow and develop from installment to installment?

Discuss the novel’s politics of gender as it pertains to the societal expectations for women. How do the female characters both conform to and rebel against their gender norms?

Aside from Becca, which character keeps the most ruinously manipulative secrets? What motivates this person’s choices, and how does the revelation of the secret change their life or outlook?

Research Irish society during the years surrounding the publication of this book. How does the author ground The Secret Place in Ireland’s history, culture, and society?

Discuss Antoinette and Stephen’s relationship. What makes them so effective as a team? Based on their actions, how might each character define friendship and partnership?

How does this novel depict the function of religion in Irish society?

What motivates Joanne as a character? Does she have any redeeming qualities? Why or why not? Use specific textual evidence to support your claims?