Because of the currency of its themes and Yolen's intriguing method of approaching them, White Jenna should provoke stimulating discussions. The question of gender relations should lead readers into provocative areas of thought. Yolen is not considered truly radical in her feminist position, and groups might enjoy discussing her work in light of the women's movement. Another fruitful line to pursue is the social restructuring treated in the novel. Discussion groups interested in fantasy should find Yolen's work highly stimulating.

1. Trace the development of Jenna's thought in the novel. How does she mature in areas of gender and social structure?

2. How does Jenna's relationship with Carum revise patriarchal tradition? What does their marriage represent?

3. The details of the ending are ambiguous. How do you interpret what happens?

4. Sort out the interrelationships among the players in the battle for women's empowerment in an equitable social order. How...