THE BOOK OF TOMORROW

Before she embarked on her writing career, Cecelia Ahern completed a degree in journalism and media communications. At 21, she wrote her first novel, P.S. I Love You, which became an international bestseller and was adapted into a major motion picture, starring Hilary Swank. Her successive novels—Love, Rosie; If You Could See Me Now; and There’s No Place Like Here—were also international bestsellers. Her books are published in 46 countries and have collectively sold more than 10 million copies. She is also the cocreator of the hit ABC comedy series Samantha Who?, starring Christina Applegate. The daughter of Ireland’s former prime minister, Ahern lives in Dublin, Ireland.

“[Ahern] takes a more gothic turn in her latest, recasting herself as a lost Bronte sister for the Facebook set. . . . Lovers of stories involving crumbling castles, nefarious family secrets . . . will be ecstatic.”—Entertainment Weekly

“A veritable modern-day Gothic, Ahern’s engrossing new novel is filled with family secrets, intrigue, and magic aplenty.”—Booklist

“Ahern’s tale-spinning prowess keeps the reader riveted.”—Publishers Weekly

Moving to County Meath removes Tamara from her privileged, socially connected, overcommercialized life in Dublin. How does the teenager mature as a result of being away from her friends and the trappings of city life? Is the author of The Book of Tomorrow arguing for a more old-fashioned way of life, including books?

What were your first impressions of Sister Ignatius? Why does Sister Ignatius keep secrets? Is she a good friend to Tamara?

In chapter 15, Tamara has to make a tangible decision to go with or against the diary—reaching for either sugar or salt—and the chapter finishes open-ended on page 190. What did you expect her to do? Explain why.

The plot twists make The Book of Tomorrow an unexpected mystery. How does the diary serve as a map for Tamara to find answers? Is it always a faithful guide?

On page 43, Tamara states, “And that is how the Goodwin problems were always fixed. Fix them on the surface but don’t go to the root, always ignoring the elephant in the room.” In what ways does the diary exacerbate or mend this family trait? Do you think this is common to many families?

How do Tamara’s friendships change over the course of the novel? In what ways do you think she outgrows her friends? How might her life have been different if they had kept in better touch?

How do you explain Tamara’s relationship to Kilsaney Castle? Why do you think such a modern girl feels such a connection to an ancient ruin? Explain why she might feel so at home there.

How does Rosaleen’s character develop over the course of the book? How did you feel about her at the beginning? Did your impressions change by the end? Were you surprised by what you discovered? What hints did the author provide in the story that may have pointed to the truth?

At the end of the novel Tamara discards the diary, saying, “I’ll have to find my own way.” Do you have faith that without the diary Tamara can try to live her tomorrows better? What, ultimately, has the diary taught her? Do you think she would have found her way without it?

On page 100, Tamara says, “What if we knew what tomorrow would bring? Would we fix it? Could we?” How do you think Tamara answers this question throughout the novel? What is your answer?

Having a book of tomorrow is an intriguing and alluring idea. Do you think that you would enjoy having a diary predict the future’s outcome? Would it take away the pleasure of the unknown or would it alleviate anxiety?