Discussion/Essay Questions:

We are unable to supply an answer key to these study questions. Original thought is looked for in answering many of these questions for which there is no "one right answer". We hope these questions will assist parents in discussing the book with their children. Those who haven't read the book themselves could still discuss these questions and ideas in a general way with their children, have their children discuss it with others who have read the book, or seek summaries of the book online to better understand it.

1. Who was Ineen Duive O'Donnell? Where did she come from before she married? Why were she and the judges discussing her son? (in the first chapter)

2. Martin of Cloghan is a shanachie. What is a shanachie and what role does Martin play in Red Hugh's upbringing and adventures?

3. In the first chapters, what does Red Hugh think of his future as a king? Do his attitudes change by the end of the story?

4. How do the English capture Red Hugh? Why do they want to keep him so isolated?

5. Why did Sir John Perrot refuse Red Hugh's request to see a priest?

6. What happened when Red Hugh made his first attempt to escape?

7. Who showed up at Red Hugh's window with a special message? How did this messenger assist in the defense of Donegal Castle? What role did Red Hugh himself play in this effort?