Less chaotic than most of Irving's novels, The Cider House Rules will likely generate discussions on the issue of abortion. The novel presents a fine opportunity to help readers clarify their beliefs about abortion and related social issues.

1. What is Irving's attitude toward abortion? How well does he understand the history of abortion? Given subsequent events, such as the violence against abortion clinics, is Irving dated or prophetic?

2. What is the connection between an abortion clinic and an orphanage? How does each represent similar social concerns?

3. How does Irving use apple-growing as metaphor?

4. What exactly are the Cider House Rules? Are they rules you value?

5. Why is Homer Wells the appropriate partner for Wilbur Larch?

6. What is the function of Larch's journal?

7. How successful is The Cider House Rules as a love story?

8. How well does Irving portray the New Hampshire and Maine landscape and community...