The Book of Doors

The novel explores the idea of cycles and repetition, such as through Cassie reliving parts of her life when sent to the past and stories being retold from new perspectives. How does this narrative device relate to books as a symbol? In what ways are the characters’ stories made to represent the experience of rereading a novel?

Is the Woman is to blame for her actions, or was she a victim of her infection? How much of a role does choice play in her journey?

The novel has two primary antagonists as opposed to one, which is more common. How do the villains compare to one another? What does each contribute to the novel’s themes or to Cassie’s development as a character? Use examples from the text to support your answer.

If you could choose to own any of the magical books in the novel, which would you choose, and why?

What role do Cassie’s unique strengths and weaknesses play in developing the events of the plot? Is she capable of creating the books because she has unique characteristics, or could anyone in her position have been able to magically create the books?

Cassie has important relationships with two paternal figures: her grandfather and Mr. Webber. Compare and contrast the way these two relationships impact her growth across the novel. What was the most important lesson they taught her, and how does she change her perspective or actions based on it?

Drummond makes a major sacrifice as he abandons his home for the greater good, but he spends most of his life in hiding. What are his primary strengths and weaknesses, and how does he develop over the course of the novel? What specifically instigates his character development?

Rebirth is a recurring motif throughout the novel—whether emerging from a literal death, as in Izzy’s and Azaki’s cases, or dramatically shifting from one state of being to another. Who else undergoes a rebirth in this story? Is the change always a positive one?