Magpie Murders

By choosing to write about a bestselling mystery novelist, Horowitz is, in some ways, writing a book about himself. What purpose does this serve in the overarching plot of the novel?

In addressing the reader, Susan Ryeland breaks the fourth wall and draws the audience into the story itself. Why do you think the author chose to employ this literary device, and how does it function in the novel?

In switching between the stories of Atticus and Susan, the book alternates between the 1940s and present-day England. How does the novel portray the changes that have taken place in the intervening time, and what is the book’s attitude toward this change?

The novel uses many classic tropes of mystery and detective fiction. What are some of these tropes, and how are they used to explore and subvert the traditions of the genre?

Throughout the novel, different chapters give the reader access to the perspectives of different characters. What purpose does the use of the third person limited narration style serve in the book?

In several instances throughout the story, Magpie Murders explores complicated family relationship dynamics. What are some of these complications, and why are they significant?

Class plays an important role in the novel, with many lower class characters jealous of their more successful neighbors or family members. What conclusions might one draw about class, money, and relationships?

The novel toys with the contrast between fiction and reality, as author Alan Conway includes many details about real people in his life in his books. What does the novel say about the relationship between the world of fiction and the world of real life?