Here are some interesting discussion topics for a reading group focused on Daddy's Girl

The Yew Tree as a Symbol 

• How does the yew tree function as a central symbol in the novel?
• Discuss the various meanings associated with the yew tree (life, death, immortality) and how they relate to the story's themes.

The Nature of Evil 

• How does the novel portray evil, particularly through characters like Archie and Rosie?
• Discuss the concept of inherent evil versus learned behaviour in relation to Rosie's character.

Grief and Its Manifestations 

• How do different characters (e.g., Clare, Elly) deal with grief throughout the story?
• Discuss the impact of unresolved grief on the characters' actions and decisions.

The Prison as a Metaphor 

• How does the author use the prison setting to explore broader themes in the novel?
• Discuss the ways in which characters are "imprisoned" beyond the physical confines of the jail.

The Blurring of Reality and Supernatural 

• How does the author blend realistic and supernatural elements in the story?
• Discuss the effectiveness of this approach in creating horror and suspense.

Motherhood and Its Challenges 

• How does the novel portray motherhood, particularly through Elly's relationship with Rosie?
• Discuss the societal expectations of motherhood versus the realities presented in the book.

The Role of History and Memory 

• How does the history of the prison and the yew tree influence the present-day events in the story?
• Discuss how personal and collective memories shape the characters' actions and perceptions.

Moral Ambiguity and Difficult Choices 

• How does the novel present morally ambiguous situations, particularly through Clare's actions?
• Discuss the concept of justified evil in the context of the story's events.

The Power of Fear 

• How does fear drive the actions of various characters throughout the novel?
• Discuss the different types of fear presented (e.g., fear of the unknown, fear of oneself) and their impacts.

Identity and Self-Discovery 

• How do characters like Clare and Elly struggle with their identities throughout the story?
• Discuss how traumatic events shape or reshape the characters' sense of self.

The Concept of Justice 

• How does the novel explore ideas of justice, both within and outside the legal system?
• Discuss whether any characters truly receive justice by the end of the story.

The Use of Multiple Perspectives 

• How does the author's use of multiple viewpoints contribute to the storytelling?
• Discuss the effectiveness of this technique in building suspense and revealing character motivations.

The Role of Institutions 

• How does the novel portray institutions like the prison system and social services?
• Discuss the effectiveness (or lack thereof) of these systems as presented in the story.

The Influence of the Past on the Present 

• How do past events and decisions continue to impact characters in the present?
• Discuss the theme of inescapable history in relation to both individual characters and the setting.

The Nature of Humanity 

• How does the novel explore what it means to be human, particularly in contrast to characters like Archie and Rosie?
• Discuss how the story challenges or reinforces readers' perceptions of humanity.