Why do you think Doris could never reach a comfortable understanding with her mother? Was it the normal teenage angst or something more serious?

Re-read the sections regarding Doris' marriage to Frank with special emphasis on her relationship with her children John and Jean. Can you discover any hints that she will soon decide to leave her husband and children?

Was Doris Lessing ahead of her times? Describe which situations reflect your opinion on this question.

Who do you believe was more influential in the life of Doris Lessing: her mother, her father, her brother?

Was Communism a passing phase for Doris, or did it most accurately describe her political views?

In what ways would Doris' life been different had her family chosen to stay in England after their return from Persia?

Why do you think Doris chose to have another child, after leaving...