Why does Naomi Alderman give the women a super power associated with electricity?
In the text the women are sometimes said to have enacted cruel and barbaric acts, such as the rape of men simply because ‘they can’. How do you interpret this phrase?
What do you find the most troubling aspect of Naomi Alderman’sThe Power?
Is there a romantic future for Roxy and Tunde? Discuss why or why not?
Naomi Alderman using religion as a prop for Mother Eve’s rise to power. Explore why she does this?
If Alderman is critical of religion, then it is religion as a whole rather than particular religious denominations. Explore why she does this and what you think her attitude to organised religion is.
Out of the four main characters, Margot, Allie, Roxy and Tunde, who do you have most sympathy for and why?
What is Naomi Alderman telling the reader through the horrific scenes of sexual abuse and violence perpetuated by women that she writes? Explore your emotional and rational response to these scenes.
Is the society in Alderman’sThe Powerthat existed before the women discover their strength a representation of today’s world?
Explore the relationship between Roxy and Allie. What observations can you make about it?
Is Mother Eve corrupt?
Who is the voice in Allie’s (Mother Eve’s) head? Does it successfully guide her? Is Mother Eve actually mad?
The book is written as a historical text set thousands of years in the future. Discuss whether you think this is an effective way of narrating the story.
What did you find most unsettling about readingThe Power?
What did you find most enjoyable about readingThe Power?
The Poweris pitched as being a thriller. Is it? What genre would you ascribe to it? Why?
Do you consider the revolutions that occured in Riyadh and Delhi to have been successful? Why or why not?
If Naomi Alderman was in the room what question would you ask her?
What do you think the illustrations added to the story?
What stereotypical qualities of men does Alderman mock through in the text? How does she do this?
What is the main factor that drives Margot’s ambition? Does she remind you of any modern day politicians? Who? Is Margot someone you can admire? Why or why not?
How do you think the book resonates differently for male and female readers?
Do Roxy and Tunde have a romantic future?
Sex in the book is often based on pain and dominance. Discuss.
“A little power is a dangerous thing’. Discuss this quote in reference to Aldermans’The Power?
Is Naomi Alderman’sThe Powera worthy winner of the Women’s Prize for Fiction? Why or why not?
What are the three main themes ofThe Power?Rank them in order of importance discussing the reasons behind your choices.
Discuss the relationships between fathers and daughters in the book.
