59 pages 1 hour read

Louise Penny

The Cruelest Month

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2007

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Essay Topics

1.

The two séances take place on Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Why does Penny set them on these religious holidays?

2.

Discuss Penny’s use of elements from several different mystery subgenres. What tropes, devices, and other techniques does she use? How does she use these elements to deepen the novel’s meaning? Use examples to support your argument.

3.

Analyze the character of Nichol. What does Gamache see in her, and why is he so willing to take her on as his protégé?

blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
blurred text
Unlock IconUnlock all 59 pages of this Study Guide
Plus, gain access to 8,550+ more expert-written Study Guides.
Including features:
+ Mobile App
+ Printable PDF
+ Literary AI Tools