A Handful of Dust Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

A Handful of Dust Topics for Discussion

Explore the author's choices in naming the characters—what is the significance of character names in the plot?

Hetton and London are central to the novel. Compare and contrast the two settings. Why is Brazil added to the plot?

Decide if any of the characters have learned a lesson through all of the mishap that occurs in the plot.

What is Messigner's significance in Tony's life? Why has the author brought him into the story?

Tony's character seems to lose the most; is there satisfactory retribution for him at all in the novel? If so, explore at what points and how those around him respond to it.

Why is the reader introduced to the new Last family at the conclusion of the novel?

Does the author intend for the reader to find amusement or discord with the characters? Who specifically is the reader meant to like or dislike?

What is...
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