The Secret of the Old Clock

Nancy’s convertible is far more than a means of transportation. What does the car symbolize? How does it advance the plot?

Multiple characters in the novel exhibit greed. Give some examples of this behavior. How do these self-serving impulses end up costing the characters in the end?

Consider the era’s thoughts on gender during which the first Nancy Drew book appeared (1930). In your opinion, would Nancy have an easier or a harder time pursuing an investigation if she were born in the 21st century? Give reasons to support your position.

Describe Hannah Gruen’s personality. What role does she fulfill for the Drew family? How does she help advance the plot?

Social class is foregrounded in Nancy Drew’s world. Describe the difference between the haves and the have-nots. Does social class matter as much today as it did then? Why, or why not?

Nancy isn’t the only character in the novel who pursues justice. Who else is on the same quest? How do their motives differ from hers?

Consider the Topham family. Each member expresses greed differently. Discuss them as individuals, and describe the negative traits of each. Do you think they receive their due at the end of the novel?

Think about Nancy Drew as a modern heroine. How does her behavior differ from her 19th-century fictional predecessors? Do you think her values and behavior still hold any relevance for the contemporary reader?