Consider the narrative structure of the book. What effect does the author achieve by narrating the story in fragments that transport readers back and forth in time? How does this structure connect to the characters’ lives and experiences?

What does an exploration of the North family matrilineally reveal about the author’s intentions? How do features of this matrilineal history connect to Joan, the story’s main character?

Hazel is the first matriarch of the narrative. Compare and contrast key elements of Hazel’s story with those of her daughters and granddaughters. What does Hazel’s story signify about the legacy of trauma in the North family?