Point of View

The story is mainly told by Oly, although after Norval Sanderson is introduced, his journals and notes appear. Also, newspaper clippings will reveal additional information about some of the events surrounding actions that occur in the plot.

Throughout most of the novel, Oly seems to speak directly to the reader. As the novel progresses, however, you learn that she is indeed telling the story of what happened for Miranda's sake. Through this retelling, she will learn of her heritage and explain her present actions of killing Miss Lick.

As Oly is the narrator for most of the story, it is very important when Norval's clippings and journal entries are introduced to the book. In this way, Norval fulfills his somewhat thwarted degree as a journalist by supplying additional information for Oly's tale. Here, you get an unbiased account of what went on. In addition, you can...