In "This House is Haunted" by John Boyne, the question of whether women should read is posed as a thought-provoking challenge. Miss Caine reflects on the idea that reading might evoke strong emotions in women, suggesting that literature has a powerful impact on them. The inquiry hints at societal views about gender and emotional responses to reading material.

The quote, "Should women read, Miss Caine? There's a question for you. Does it excite them too much?" emphasizes the idea that women's reactions to reading can be seen as intense or uncontrollable. It reveals underlying assumptions about gender and emotional expression, prompting readers to consider how societal perceptions influence women's engagement with literature.