The Misremembered Man by Christina McKenna

1. The main themes of The Misremembered Man are loneliness and friendship. Why is Jamie lonely and how important is his friendship with his neighbors Rose and Paddy?

2. Even though he had a very difficult childhood, he never talks about it to those closest to him. Why do you think this is?

3. Why do Rose and Dr. Brewster suggest that he find a wife? What are their motives for doing this? What is Jamie's immediate reaction?

4. Why do the memories of his childhood in the orphanage come back so forcibly as the novel progresses?

5. At two key points Jamie contemplates suicide. What is the catalyst for this and what makes him change his mind?

6. Everyone has the right to end their life if they so choose. Do you agree or disagree? Why is the act of taking ones own life so frowned upon?

7. Rose is very much a woman of her time. She is the quintessential housewife who puts a man's needs before her own and she seems very happy in this role. Do you think women in those times were happier than those of today? Why?

8. Discuss Lydia's relationship with her mother, Elizabeth, and with her Aunt Gladys. Why is her mother so controlling?

9. In the end Lydia and Gladys part ways. Why?

10. Do you think Lonely Hearts ads are a good idea? Do you know of anyone who has met their partner in this way, or the modern equivalent, dating agencies or online dating sites? What kind of people would either place or reply to such ads?

11. How does our childhood impact on us as adults? Is it ever possible to overcome an abusive childhood?