The Shell Seekers

How did Penelope’s bohemian upbringing shape her into the person she became? Did this upbringing prepare her for the hardships of World War II, or do the hardships of war catch her off guard? Use examples from the text to prove your point.

Compare and contrast Penelope’s character with Olivia’s. Why is Olivia the child that Penelope is closest to?

Discuss the character of Nancy. How did Dolly Keeling shape Nancy’s perspective on life and on Penelope in particular? How has Nancy’s focus on appearances impacted her relationships? Would money really fix all of Nancy’s problems, or do they run deeper than that? Use examples from the text to support your discussion.

Discuss the character of Noel in relation to his father. How do both Noel and Ambrose find their own relationships and life goals impacted by their dreams of wealth? Use specific examples from the novel to support your analysis.

Why is The Shell Seekers such a bone of contention between Penelope and her children? What does the painting mean to Penelope, and what does it mean to the children? Why does Penelope ultimately donate the painting to the gallery?

Both Noel and Nancy claim that Penelope never gave them anything and that she failed them in some way. Discuss the motivation that drives these statements. Is there evidence that Penelope failed her children? How does this sense of failure impact the parent-child relationship?

Penelope tells Doris that Danus reminds her of Richard. Why is it significant that Penelope sees Richard in Danus? How does Danus and Antonia’s relationship compare to Penelope’s relationship with Richard, and how does this moment explain the motivation for the gifts that Penelope gives to the young couple?

Penelope asks each of her children to travel with her to Porthkerris, and each one declines. What reason does Penelope have to go back to Porthkerris? Why would she want her children with her, and why do they refuse? Why does Nancy become angry when she learned Penelope took Antonia and Danus instead?