Praxis

Praxis is the main character and narrator of the novel. Her first person voice appears in the novel's even-numbered chapters. Her third person rendering of her life appears in the novel's odd-numbered chapters. Throughout the narrative, Praxis goes by a number of different names as she attempts to discard the version of herself she dislikes, and locate a new, more liberated identity. The author vacillates between identifying her as Praxis, Patricia, Pat, and Pattie depending on how Praxis sees herself.

Praxis is born Praxis Duveen. She grows up at 109 Holden Road with her mother, Lucy, sister, Hypatia, and father, Benjamin. Her parents' unmarried status upsets their reputation in the community, and complicates the way others see Praxis and her sister. After Benjamin abandons the family, conditions worsen at Holden Road. Lucy becomes increasingly distressed and unpredictable. Hypatia grows distant and cold. For a time, Praxis believes school is...