Wildoak

Harrington frequently personifies parts of the forest, especially the ancient oak tree. How does the personification of the oak tree function to enhance the themes of the novel?

The chapters told from Rumpus’s perspective anthropomorphize Rumpus, ascribing human thoughts and feelings to the snow leopard. How does this choice affect the reader’s engagement with the story? Why is Rumpus’s viewpoint necessary?

Harrington uses many similes and metaphors in Wildoak. Choose three similes or metaphors and explain how they enhance the reader’s understanding of themes or characters.

The novel has two antagonists: Maggie’s father and Lord Foy. Compare and contrast their characterization.

Both Evelyn and Fred are important sources of security and self-confidence for Maggie. Which of these two characters do you believe is a better role model for Maggie? Why?

In what ways does Maggie grow throughout Wildoak? Discuss the events that shape her growth.

There are many similarities between Maggie’s and Rumpus’s situations. In what ways are these two characters similar? How do these similarities support the story’s themes?

The Epilogue to the novel takes place many years after the main action of the novel. How does the Epilogue contribute to the reader’s understanding of the novel’s themes?