Point of View

The novel is written from the first-person point of view. This point of view is critical to the development of the novel because the novel largely focuses on Gail’s mental state and how she makes her way in the world. It is her internal transformations that allow for the reigniting of her romantic relationship at the end of the novel. Thus, the reader must be privy to the inner workings of her mind. Additionally, the novel is focused on how both she and others perceive her. Because the novel is written from a limited point of view, the reader must ascertain, through the actions of Gail and of others, what actually is the truth with Gail. People do not always see themselves accurately, and this is also true of fictional characters.

The novel opens with Marilee’s assertion that Gail lacks people skills. Marilee...