Book details
Robert Swindells - Author
This is a socially serious novel about a child living under strict religious and family control. Its central tension concerns secrecy, loyalty and whether Martha should help reveal what her parents want hidden.
Book Analysis
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Sign in for personalised guidanceHow the book presents it: The book presents this favourably.
Talk about: What does Scott offer Martha that she cannot find within her family or community?
How the book presents it: The overview says the novel critically examines extreme practices and their effects on children, while also noting that religion may empower or restrict individuals.
Talk about: How does the novel distinguish personal faith from rules imposed by a group?
How the book presents it: The premise sets family loyalty against truth and protection, inviting consideration of when secrecy may harm someone.
Talk about: If keeping a secret protects a family’s reputation, who might still be harmed by it?
It could prompt thoughtful discussion about how friendship may support someone under pressure, how beliefs are challenged, and how loyalty to family can conflict with protecting oneself or others.
The story includes parental abuse, oppressive religious control, bullying or taunting at school, isolation, secrecy, and a hidden child described as a creature. These elements may make parts of the novel disturbing.
How does Martha’s friendship with Scott affect her thinking about secrecy and loyalty? If she feels responsible for protecting others, what choices might seem possible to her?
Consider reading alongside the child, pausing after revelations about family rules, the secret and Martha’s friendship. Invite reactions without requiring personal disclosure, and check in after troubling scenes.
Theme indicators describe how the book presents a topic; they are not a verdict on the whole book or your family's values. Confidence reflects how much book-specific material was checked. Only part of the book information was available, so some details remain unconfirmed.
Abomination by Robert Swindells - Planning Overview
Limited information
Checked: 19 September 2026.
Relevant to: Friendship under pressure; Religious control and personal freedom
Benefits, discussion questions and reading approaches are suggestions. Your knowledge of your child remains part of the decision.
These links show the original reading lists. Inclusion is not a guarantee of suitability for your child.
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