Point of View

There are 22 chapters in all, and the chapters average 15 – 20 pages each. The story is told from the main character’s perspective—and spans the time between Bone’s 5th and 13th years. Her feelings, thoughts, and observations take us through the tragedy that is her life. The reader can empathize with her, and even sympathize with her at times as she faces some tough situations.

The main story line is about a young girl’s abuse at the hands of her step-father and her confusion over her mother’s devotion to him even as she wants to protect her daughter. The raw emotions and deep damage that is being done to this girl on many levels is the foundation for the story. While she actually has a strong maternal family structure, her immediate family is a lost cause. The sub-plots are supportive and help flesh...