Darling Girls

How did Norah, Jessica, and Alicia’s time in foster care contribute to their bond as sisters despite not being related by blood? Discuss the importance of this bond to Norah, Jessica, and Alicia and how their bond shows throughout the novel.

How does each character reflect their unique trauma from growing up with Miss Fairchild into their adult lives at the beginning of the novel? For example, in the beginning, Jessica steals Valium from her clients, Norah uses sex in a transactional way, and Alicia is unable to share her feelings for Meera.

In the end, Miss Fairchild reveals that she fabricated the story of her childhood and that she was the one who murdered her mother and stepfather’s child. What are Miss Fairchild’s actual and malevolent intentions for fostering?

Jessica learned how to navigate her environment as a child so as not to upset Miss Fairchild as much as possible. Discuss the impact of this on her relationship with Phil. Did she create a similar environment in her marriage?

In the end, it is revealed that Jessica told Miss Fairchild about their plan to report her to the police because she yearned for Miss Fairchild’s approval. Why do you think she felt a responsibility to do so despite her loyalty to her sisters? Do you think she still feels that yearning even as an adult? Why?

In chapter 2, Norah asks Jessica how to handle her feelings to which Jessica replies: “You bury them . . . good and deep.” Why do you think Jessica said this? How does burying her feelings affect Jessica throughout the novel? Have you ever done this in your own life? How did it affect you?

Why do you think Alicia chose social work as her profession?

Why do you think Miss Fairchild volunteered to foster the babies? Was it simply about money, or do you think she had an ulterior motive?

In Chapter 70, Norah mentions: “And, despite everything that had happened at Port Agatha, she had to admit that there was something about it that felt like . . . home.” Do you think Norah moves to Port Agatha in the end? Why do you think Port Agatha symbolizes a home for Norah? What symbolizes a home for you?

Did the end surprise you? How did you feel about Miss Fairchild before and after the twist?