Parker's Spenser novels are engaged in dealing with contemporary problems and should lend themselves to stimulating lively discussion, especially of social and political issues. The Godwulf Manuscript, for example, deals with the tag-end of the counterculture of the early 1970s and explores the bogus as well as the real issues raised by social protest and political action. Although Parker does not bludgeon his readers with his views about such issues, he nevertheless features them prominently in his novels, often raising interesting points of view and conflicting values.

1. Crime fiction has often been used as a vehicle for dealing with broad social issues. In what ways does The Godwulf Manuscript do so?

2. Social activism raised some disquieting notions about justice and fairness in American society. What sorts of issues are foregrounded in this novel by the student protesters?

3. If the group knows the subsequent books in the...