The Memory Keeper's Daughter

The author does not include a chapter from Phoebe’s point of view. Why do you think Edwards made this decision? How does Phoebe’s forced silence affect the narrative?

Discuss the role of women within the narrative. Are there similarities between the female characters? What are the differences? How does the historical context affect the treatment and behavior of the female characters?

Why did Edwards have Caroline wait until David died to tell Norah and Paul about Phoebe? Would you have told them earlier or never told them at all? Discuss your answer.

The author allows the reader insight into David’s rationale behind his lie. Does this knowledge allow the reader to justify his behavior? Why or why not?

Which character do you empathize the most with? With whom do you empathize the least? Explain your answers.

Much of the narrative takes place within the characters’ heads, as they think about their lives and relationships. Why does the author create the story in this way? Do you think this is effective? Why or why not?

Discuss the similarities and differences between relationships within the novel. Which relationships are the strongest, and what makes them this way?

Discuss the character of Rosemary. What purpose does she serve within the narrative? How does her existence contribute to and/or alleviate conflict within the novel?