Reading Group Guide
Discussion Questions
1. Secrets and trust are at the heart of this novel. Do you think Syd was justified in lying to Jack? What about the things Jack kept from Syd—were his lies any less of a betrayal?
2. How did the dueling point of view structure impact your reading of the novel and your opinions about the two main characters?
3. What connections can you draw between Elsie as a child and Syd as an adult? What did you initially make of their relationship?
4. Discuss the character of Syd. What were your first impressions of her? Did your opinions about her change as the novel unfolded?
5. How did you feel about Syd and Jack as a couple? How would you describe the quality of their relationship?
6. “Even now, if you gave me the chance . . . I’m not sure I’m strong enough. I’ve just never, ever been strong enough.” How do you feel about Syd’s mother in this moment? Is she an unforgivable character, or a victim herself? Does she redeem herself in the end? Why do you think she stayed with Syd’s father?
7. What do you think of the neighborhood in this story? What roles, if any, do Syd and Jack’s neighbors play in Elsie’s abuse and Sean Payne’s murder?
8. What do you think of Jack’s relationship with Sabeen and her family? Do you think it was understandable for Jack to help them the way he did? Or was it unethical?
9. How did you feel about the book’s ending?
10. Would Jack and Syd make good parents?
