The Uncommon Reader is intended to be a satirical novella. What does the book seem to be critiquing? Use evidence from the text to support your argument(s).

Why does Bennett include Norman’s character? How does Norman’s sexual orientation, which is mentioned several times in the book, alter the overall plot of the novella?

Over the course of the novella, many traditional pieces of literature are mentioned. The Queen only struggles specifically with Jane Austen and feminist literature. Why does Bennett describe this struggle? What is Bennett trying to illustrate through his use of classic examples?