The Clay Marble

Explore the gender dynamics in the novel. How are femininity and masculinity represented? What is the significance between the similarities and differences between the two?

The novel explores both interpersonal ties formed via bloodlines (family) and those formed through voluntary choice (friendships). How are these different interpersonal dynamics related in the novel? How do these connections contribute to the novel’s narrative, characterization, and/or key ideas?

Jantu enjoys telling the story of “Khong the Brave,” about a coward who steals credit for his wife’s heroics. Why does this folktale have so much appeal for her? How does it, and the story of the four deaf brothers, relate to the themes of The Clay Marble?

Explore the historical context of The Clay Marble in greater depth. How does Minfong Ho blend elements of the historical and the fictional to tell the story? What insights does a novel provide that a work of nonfiction on the topic could not?

Analyze the character of Chnay. What is his wider significance in the story? How do his characterization and character arc illustrate some of the novel’s key themes?

Creativity is presented in the novel as an important, even “magical,” force. How and why is creativity depicted in this way? What role does creativity play in Dara’s experiences and personal growth?

In The Clay Marble, a distinction is made between objects, which are temporary, and feelings, which can be kept forever. How does Dara’s character arc illustrate this shift from reliance on objects to a greater reliance on feelings, memories, and/or personal qualities? What is the meaning of this transformation?

Explore the various ways in which violence manifests itself in the novel, both overtly and in more subtle ways. What forms does violence take? How are the different forms of violence connected?