Q & A with Emma Donoghue discussion

Hi Emma,

First off I would like to say I really enjoyed your book! We read it for my English class and now we are working on research papers. I chose to write about your book and about the psychological effects of confinement on Jack. I believe the effects of his confinement are very apparent when he first leaves Room, however, towards the end of the novel, Jack seems to be doing okay. He cuts off his ponytail, goes out without Ma, has his own room, etc. I was wondering how you think Jack's character will progress as he grows up. Do you think he will have permanent psychological effects or is the ending of the novel meant to show that he will be okay?

Very briefly just because I've speculated about this elsewhere - I think he's going to be fine. Look how well children from the most appalling situations can do once they are granted a bit of stability...