At St. Oswald’s, a venerable boys’ school in the north of England, another tumultuous year has come to a close. The staff and boys at the school are trying to recover from the latest scandal to rock the institution, but unfortunately more upheaval is on the way. A new headmaster arrives and ushers in a wind of unwelcome changes. While old-guard Latin master Roy Straitley struggles to survive in this new system of e-mails and PowerPoint, a former student reenters his life, and with him, a twenty-year-old tale of intrigue, corruption and murder. . . .

For Discussion

1. How does the tone of the prologue set the stage for the rest of the novel? Discuss the relevance of the title, Different Class. Consider what the author is trying to say about class as it relates to St. Oswald’s and society. Find examples in the novel of how class is applied to the characters.

2. What point do you think the author is trying to make about the roles of religion and tradition on identity and sexuality? How are characters defined by their sexuality? Why do you suppose Harris chose to use pseudonyms for several of the main characters? How does the novel capture the feel of adolescence? Discuss the similarities and differences between the past and present students of St. Oswald’s. Are their experiences unique to the times? Explain.

3. What is Harry Clarke’s role in the novel? How does he become the “mythical beast” for several other characters? Why is he such an inspiration to so many of his students and friends? How responsible is Harry for what happens to him? What could he have done differently in the Charlie Nutter situation?

4. How does St. Oswald’s function as a character? Discuss the similarities between St. Oswald’s and its most staunch supporter, Straitley. How is Harrington a foil for Straitley, and, in many ways, St. Oswald’s?

5. The novel revolves around two sets of friends. Compare and contrast how both groups are defined. What are the similarities, the differences? Discuss what friendship means to the different characters in the novel. Lastly, what does friendship mean to you?

6. Evaluate how the author uses Latin quotes to divide the narrative. What is the importance of the quotes and how do they help shape the story? For instance, part three opens with “Qui desiderat pacem, praeparet bellum,” which translated means: If you want peace, prepare for war. Which characters are preparing for war and with whom? Explain why you agree or disagree with this statement.

7. Consider the ways in which the Laughing Gnome might function as a symbol in the novel. Why do you think Harry left the gnome to Straitley? Do you believe that Straitley uses the gift wisely? Why or why not? What would you have done if you were in his shoes?