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Insightful,
Interesting,
Optimistic

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Light A Penny Candle
by Maeve Binchy

Published: 2007-11-06
Paperback : 592 pages
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Recommended to book clubs by 1 of 1 members
As a child, Elizabeth White was sent from her war-torn London home to a safer life in the small Irish town of Kilgarret. It was there, in the crowded, chaotic O'Connor household, that she met Aisling-who would become her very best friend, sharing her pet kitten and secretly teaching her ...
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Introduction

As a child, Elizabeth White was sent from her war-torn London home to a safer life in the small Irish town of Kilgarret. It was there, in the crowded, chaotic O'Connor household, that she met Aisling-who would become her very best friend, sharing her pet kitten and secretly teaching her the intricacies of Catholicism. Aisling's boldness brought Elizabeth out of her proper shell; later, her support carried Elizabeth through the painful end of her parents' chilly marriage. In return, Elizabeth's friendship helped Aisling endure her own unsatisfying marriage to a raging alcoholic. Through the years, they always believed they could overcome any conflict, conquer any hardship. They believed they could survive anything, as long as they had each other. Now they're about to find out if they were right.

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Discussion Questions

What functions does the kitten Monica play in the novel?

Why do you think that Sean O'Connor has such difficulty coexisting with his sons as they reach maturity? Pick one of the relationships and discuss it.

What function does Donal's asthma play in the novel? How does he unify and divide the O'Connor family?

How does Elizabeth's curiosity about her parents' early relationship demonstrate the freedom of expression that she learns in Ireland? Could George and Violet have helped her cope with life by sharing their repressed feelings?

Do you find it realistic that Aisling O'Connor would fall for Johnny Stone, knowing from Elizabeth White's experience how intractable he is? Is the relationship with Johnny in any sense good for either young woman? (From book rags)

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by Tiffany P. (see profile) 11/08/19

 
  "Light a Penny Candle"by Barbara D. (see profile) 09/12/12

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