Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of child death.

Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. What were your initial thoughts on the narrator’s journey with the Kinsellas? How did your feelings toward the narrator and the couple evolve through the story?

2. How well do you think the novella captures the atmosphere and culture of rural Ireland in the 1980s? What specific details stood out to you?

3. What was your reaction to the ending? Did it provide closure, or were there aspects of the story you wish had been explored further? 

4. Have you read other works by Keegan (e.g., Small Things Like These)? How would you compare them to this novel?

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

1. The narrator finds healing and growth in the care of the Kinsellas, a found family. Have you ever had a relationship outside your biological family that brought you significant personal growth? What made it impactful?

2. The novella explores the power of silence and unspoken truths. Have you ever chosen to remain silent to protect someone or yourself? How do you feel about that decision in retrospect?