Topic 1

Discuss whether there is a sense of authorial voice in the narration. Discuss whether it is a mere novel to be discarded when read, or whether it has a deeper purpose. Is it a polemic (controversial argument or assertion)?

Topic 2

Discuss whether there is direction and meaning in lives beyond the individual’s own will. Are we no more than the flies the boys kill? What is meant by “this conspiracy of the stone-cutters”?

Topic 3

What is the significance of the bridge of San Luis Rey in this story? In what way does it serve as a symbol? Whose name does it bear? Why would the author have given it that name?

Topic 4

What is love? Discuss whether there are different forms of love. What forms does love take in this book? Can love be selfless? Discuss remorse.

Topic 5

Who is Brother Juniper? What is his...