The Sea Captain's Wife

Why do you believe Azuba consents to an “expedition” to Davidson’s Beach with Reverend Walton, despite her initial hesitation?

What motivates the reactions to Azuba and Reverend Walton’s night at the beach? Consider the reactions of Azuba, Nathaniel, Reverend Walton, the Galloways, and the community.

Were you in Azuba’s position, would you have decided on a life at sea, or to stay?

While in the Chincha Islands, Azuba reflects, “She felt small before a sense of her own selfishness. She had brought Carrie to this monstrous place, thinking to make a family. But it had been for herself, not Carrie. . . . There was no way to erase horror from a child’s memory” (p. 131). Does this reflection change your answer to the previous question? Why or why not?

Why do you believe Nathaniel changed his mind and allowed Azuba and the children to accompany him to Hong Kong? With what legacy does that decision leave him?

What techniques does Powning use to build suspense while the family is at sea?

Discuss the men who feature prominently in Azuba’s life, particularly Nathaniel, Reverend Walton, Traveller’s crew and, to some extent, her father and brothers. How are they different? How are they the same? What does the nature of Azuba’s relationships with each of them tell us about her?

What does Azuba learn from Mr. Dennis? Discuss Azuba’s relationship with the first mate, as well as Nathaniel’s.

Discuss the women who influence Azuba: the other “sister sailors,” her Grammy Cooper, Ida Bradstock, Lizette and particularly Carrie. How does each relationship influence her decisions to go to sea and to return home?

If you were to describe Azuba to a friend, what are the words you would use? Discuss how your answer is different from or similar to others’ in your group. What accounts for those differences or similarities?

Do you believe Azuba understood the realities of what life at sea would be like?

In the end, when they return home, is Azuba content with her life in Whelan’s Cove? Is Nathaniel?

What does Azuba realize about herself as a woman living alone on land, once she has been to sea and can look back on her life?

Discuss the relationship people have with nature in this novel. In what ways is it similar to where we are today in our relationship with the planet?