Does this article resonate with you?

Hello again, readers. I have posted some questions... but, please, take your time. Enjoy your holiday next week. Finish the novel if you need to. And don't be afraid to come back when you're done. I'm anxious to hear from you, even if you're not quite ready to participate. We'll still be here when you get back. Happy Thanksgiving!

A Town Like Alice has been described by some as a book in two parts, by others a book in three parts, and again by others as a string of short stories tied together by the character Jean Paget. Does the novel work as a whole? Would it work better “in pieces”? Besides Jean, how are the threads connected?

The story is told through Jean’s trust’s solicitor, Noel. Does this work? What do you think of Noel himself?

Mrs. Frith suggests that God blesses the traveling women and children through Joe’s sacrifice (p. 111). The suggestion eventually buoys and strengthens the women. Why does it have this effect? Jean doesn’t believe this herself, but she does not discourage others from believing. Why?

Discussion point: Jean survives and even thrives by adapting, playing to and respecting the existing culture of the places she lives. Yet, she remains true to herself.

“Men’s souls are naturally inclined to covetousness; but if ye be kind towards women and fear to wrong them, God is well acquainted with what ye do.”