Point of View

The narrative is written from a limited, third-person point of view. Tara is the narrator, and readers learn about other characters through her opinions of them and through their own words through letters and dialogue.

Telling the story from Tara's limited point of view works and makes sense. This is the story of Tara's coming of age. In order for readers to see her progression from adolescent to adult, it is useful for readers to know her state of mind as she passes through different experiences. Tara's voice is strong and clear in the narration. It demonstrates her anger toward the world.

At times, however, the narrative presents a juxtaposition between what Tara thinks and what other characters say. The most interesting contrast appears in Connor's letters. It is through them that readers learn Tara's real character and how she has treated people in the...