2:30 – 4:00 p.m.
book is composed of two interwoven
threads: Sarah’s story in 1942 and
2002. What are the strengths and
drawbacks of this narrative form? Which
‘voice’ did you prefer and why?
different feelings does Sarah experience
throughout the trauma of the round-up and
its aftermath? How do you think you would
have reacted as a ten-year old child?
does Julia Jarmond consider France and
the French? Do you agree with her?
would you characterize Julia and
Bertrand's marriage and how does Julia's
character evolve over the course of the
does Julia’s daughter Zoë help and
support her mother? How does she echo the
other little girl in the story, Sarah?
novel is built around several family
secrets. What are these secrets?
Was Julia right to go so far? Is it
sometimes better not to know?
discovers disturbing events concerning
French collaboration with the Nazis
during the war. Did you learn of any
historical events you previously did not
know about? Which ones struck you the
do you imagine happens after the end of
the novel? What do you think Julia’s
life will be like now? What has she
readers were moved to tears by certain
passages in this book. Discuss
whether this was your case, or not, and
which were the passages that moved you
The rue de Saintonge apartment is a key element to this story, bringing past and present together through a secret tragedy. Discuss how you would feel living in such a place. Do you think Walls remember?