The Keeper of Hidden Books

The Keeper of Hidden Books depicts the various approaches that leaders such as Krystyna, Darek, Mrs. Berman, and even the Fraus take to inspire, motivate, or elicit the support of those who answer to them. Select two of these leaders and compare and contrast their leadership styles, using key examples from the text.

Why do Zofia and her friends want to read books that Hitler has banned? How does the novel characterize reading as a political act?

Examine Zofia’s reactions to the different novels that she reads with the Bandit Book Club. How do her reactions provide new insights into her character? Consider how her reactions differ from those of her friends.

What does the novel suggest about the nature and purpose of patriotism? Cite examples to support your analysis.

The successful novelist Marta Krakowska tells Zofia that she needs to suffer more profoundly before she will be able to convincingly write about human emotion. Does the novel support Krakowska’s assessment? Why or why not?

Is The Keeper of Hidden Books a coming-of-age story? Why or why not?

Does Martin’s novel suggest that revenge is a fulfilling or effective motivator? Cite examples to support your response.

How do Martin’s strategic descriptions of the various settings affect the overall tone of the novel? Consider her depictions of key locations such as the library, the Jewish ghetto and its associated wall, the surrounding countryside, and Warsaw itself.