Money

Money represents mobility and stress in the novel. One of the main frustrations within Judy and Gary's marriage is their lack of financial freedom due to their freelance jobs.

Animals

Animals symbolize comfort and love in the novel. Judy turns to Charlotte because she is looking for the love and visibility she does not receive from her husband or son.

School

School symbolizes development and growth in the novel. Teddy works hard at school despite having a learning disability.

Sleeping

Sleeping symbolizes distance and loneliness in the novel. Each night, Judy and Gary retreat to their separate bedrooms.

Puppet costumes

Puppet costumes symbolize a method for characters to shed their own skin and take comfort in being different versions of themselves. Gary overcomes his own fear of costumed characters through his interactions with the People Puppets performance group.

Baby sling

The baby sling symbolizes human closeness...