Discuss which way of life best accomplishes, or would have accomplished, Clovis and Gertie's mutual goal of a good life for their family - Gertie's life on the farm or Clovis' life in the city. Include an examination of what constitutes a "good" life - family closeness? Working together towards a common purpose? Possessions? Lots of money? A large community? Isolation?

Is The Dollmaker a negative commentary on the destructive power of consumerism, or is it a positive celebration of human resourcefulness and determination? Does it take a negative view of the so-called American Dream, or a positive one?

Discuss whether Gertie is a positive or negative female role model. Is her acceptance of the role of breadwinner an example of female empowerment, and is her freeing herself from the spiritual domination of the block of cherry wood a kind of triumph or victory...