Structure

The memoir is divided into three untitled parts. The first part is the longest, consisting of 17 chapters. These depict her life as a child, describing crucial events in her childhood that shaped her understanding of her world and herself. Almost half the story is dedicated to establishing an understanding of the familial dynamics between her, her most influential siblings, and her parents. Their isolated world operates on different rules from the rest of society. The second part depicts her transition from her abusive world to her education. This middle section places Tara between her two worlds and selves. She falls back into her family's old ways time and again as she builds the confidence to pursue her own interests. The third part is when Tara puts her education to the test against her family. In her pursuit of uncovering the truth, she gains the confidence to do...