Discussion Guide for After by Pádraig Kenny

Pádraig Kenny’s After is a gripping and thought-provoking novel that invites readers into a post-apocalyptic world shaped by survival, technology, and the power of human connection. Set against the backdrop of a landscape reshaped by the catastrophic rise of ‘Meks,’ the story follows Jen and Father as they navigate an uncertain future, searching for safety and meaning in a fractured world.

This discussion guide is designed to help readers explore the novel’s major themes, from the nature of artificial intelligence and technological advancement to the complexities of family, trust, and hope. Through structured questions and activities, the guide encourages thoughtful reflection on the characters’ journeys, their moral dilemmas, and the broader implications of their world - many of which resonate deeply with our own.

Whether used in a classroom, book club, or personal study, this guide provides a framework for meaningful discussions. It invites readers to consider the ethical dilemmas presented in After, examine the emotional depth of its characters, and engage with the timeless question: what does it truly mean to be human?