This is a great book to use to get to know your book club members because you can ask everyone to tell about their heritage. We are a midwest group so this story spoke to us of our strong women ancestors who suffered so we can have all the good things we have today.

Although the writing is not modern and the prose is somewhat dense, our bookclub enjoyed this book. Mark Twain loves language and his prose is delightful. The subject matter is thought provoking and has ample material for discussion.

What is the significance of the fairy tree at the beginning of the book?

Did the fairy tree suprise you knowing Mark Twain was the author?

Was Joan of Arc inspired by God?

How did the Paladin add to the story? How did such a character manage to become a hero?

Belief is a key concept in the book. Discuss the power of belief and how it affected specific characters as well as how it affected France.