10 Book Club Questions For The Covenant of Water by Abraham Verghese

Q: What is the disease / Condition in The Covenant of Water ?

“The Condition” in The Covenant of Water refers to a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). This condition is characterized by the growth of tumors on the acoustic nerves, which are responsible for balance and hearing.

Q: What medical condition did Baby Mol have in The Covenant of Water?

Baby Mol was diagnosed with cretinism. This is an outdated term for a condition caused by congenital hypothyroidism, meaning her thyroid gland was underactive from birth. This condition leads to stunted physical and mental development.

Posted on April 4, 2024

Abraham Verghese’s epic novel The Covenant of Water is a sweeping saga that spans three generations of the Parambil family in Kerala, South India. The tale weaves together themes of family, faith, love, loss, and the enduring legacy of inherited burdens. Verghese, the author of the critically acclaimed “Cutting for Stone,” has once again crafted a masterpiece that immerses readers in the vibrant and complex culture of Kerala, while exploring the depths of the human experience.

Published: May 2023

Genre: Historical Fiction

Time Period: 1900 to 1974

Chapters: 84

Pages: 720

Star Rating: 4.5

The Covenant of Water Discussion Questions

The Covenant of Water is a novel that demands to be savored, its pages brimming with vivid descriptions, complex characters, and profound explorations of universal themes.

These questions are free of spoilers as much as possible and are designed to foster engaging conversations and invite readers to share their unique perspectives on the novel’s most compelling aspects. Here are some of the questions we have taken from The Covenant of Water Book Club Guide, a comprehensive resource we created to enhance the reading experience with the book. It is filled with discussion questions, games, quotes, food ideas and so much more for both individual readers and book clubs alike. You can get your copy here.

The “Condition” serves as a central theme throughout the novel, shaping the lives of multiple generations of the Parambil family. How does this inherited disorder serve as a metaphor for the burdens and legacies we inherit from our families?
Do you believe Elsie’s decision to disappear and create a new life for herself were justified considering the societal stigma surrounding leprosy and her desire to protect her daughter?
Discuss the evolution of Mariamma’s faith throughout the story. How does her understanding of God and grace shift as she navigates the complexities of life and death?
The caste system in India plays a significant role in the lives of several characters, particularly Joppan and Shamuel. Analyze the ways in which the novel critiques the social hierarchies and injustices perpetuated by caste. How do characters like Uplift Master and Philipose challenge these entrenched systems?
The novel explores the theme of motherhood through various characters, including Big Ammachi, Elsie, and Anna Chedethi. Discuss the different ways in which these women embody motherhood and the challenges they face. How does the concept of motherhood evolve throughout the story?
Consider the various forms of social and political activism portrayed in this book, from Uplift Master’s efforts to improve Parambil to Lenin’s involvement in the Naxalite movement. Discuss the effectiveness of these different approaches to social change. Do you believe that individual actions or collective movements are more impactful in addressing systemic injustices?
Analyze the different types of secrets kept by characters in the story and the motivations behind their concealment. How do these secrets ultimately bind or divide the family? Discuss the ethical implications of keeping secrets, particularly when they involve matters of health or identity.
Explore the meanings behind various character names and nicknames, such as “Big Ammachi,” “Baby Mol,” and “Uplift Master.” How do these names reflect the characters’ personalities, roles within the family, and their journeys of self-discovery?
The novel portrays various forms of disability and illness, including leprosy, cretinism, and the Condition. Analyze the author’s approach to depicting these conditions and the challenges faced by characters living with them. How does the novel contribute to a broader conversation about disability, stigma, and the human experience of illness?
Music plays a role in the lives of several characters, from the Carnatic music lessons next door to Digby’s bungalow to Mariamma’s preference for opera. Discuss the different ways in which music serves as a source of comfort, inspiration, and cultural identity for the characters.

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Book Club Discussion Guide - Printables

For those seeking a truly immersive experience with this extraordinary novel, I highly recommend the The Covenant of Water Book Club Guide. This comprehensive guide is a must-have for book lovers, book club members, and individual readers alike.

Imagine the richness of your discussions when you have access to a plethora of thought-provoking discussion questions, along with games and icebreakers to enliven your gatherings. But that’s not all – this guide also includes a word search puzzle, printable bookmarks, and a handy character list to help you keep track of the intricate web of characters.

And what’s a book club meeting without a space to record your insights and memorable moments? This guide provides ample journal space for you to capture the essence of your discussions, ensuring that the conversations and connections forged over this exceptional novel endure long after the final page is turned.

As a digital download and printable resource, The Covenant of Water Book Club Guide is a true gem, offering convenience and versatility for your book club adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Covenant of Water based on a true story?

While The Covenant of Water draws inspiration from the author’s own family history and experiences growing up in Kerala, it is ultimately a work of fiction. The characters and events are fictionalized, although they reflect the social, cultural, and historical realities of the time period and setting. The “Condition” described in the novel is based on a real medical disorder, neurofibromatosis type 2, but the specific family history and experiences of the Parambil family are fictionalized.

What is the disease / Condition in The Covenant of Water ?

“The Condition” in The Covenant of Water refers to a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2). This condition is characterized by the growth of tumors on the acoustic nerves, which are responsible for balance and hearing.

What causes the drownings in The Covenant of Water?

The drownings in The Covenant of Water are caused by a rare genetic condition known as neurofibromatosis type 2 or NF2. In the novel, the condition is passed down through generations of the Parambil family. It leads to the development of tumors on the acoustic nerves, which are responsible for balance and hearing. These tumors disrupt the signals from the inner ear to the brain, causing dizziness and disorientation, especially in water. The affected individuals struggle to maintain their balance and orientation, making them more susceptible to drowning, even in calm or shallow water.

What medical condition did Baby Mol have in The Covenant of Water?

Baby Mol was diagnosed with cretinism. This is an outdated term for a condition caused by congenital hypothyroidism, meaning her thyroid gland was underactive from birth. This condition leads to stunted physical and mental development.

Conclusion

The Covenant of Water is a literary masterpiece that deserves to be savored, discussed, and celebrated. Not only because it is an Oprah Book Club pick but because it is a compelling and rich historical fiction novel that explores the depths of the human experience while transporting readers to the lush landscapes and rich culture of Kerala.

If you enjoy historical fiction with complex characters and a strong sense of place, you will likely find The Covenant of Water an enriching and enjoyable read.