The Perfect Sister

One of the recurring themes in this book is how the same relationship is often viewed in different ways. What instances of this did you notice throughout the story? How did they impact the plot?

As you were reading, what did you think happened to Maddie? Did your thinking change as you read?

What was the role of nature versus nurture in this story? What impact do you believe the parents had on their children? In what ways do a parent’s past experiences affect later generations?

Were you surprised when James revealed the truth about his relationship with Maddie? As you thought back on the story after, did you recall any clues that foreshadowed the ending?

Who did you think was the narrator of The Wharf chapters? Did your thinking ever change throughout the course of the book?

Which narrator was your favorite? Which was your least favorite? Why?

How did Alex’s character evolve over the course of the narrative? Did you notice any other characters who changed over time?

Complicated family dynamics played a major role in this novel. How did the relationships between the members of the Blackwell family, and the members of the Walker family, impact the outcome of the story?

What role did economic disparity have on the narrative? Do you think it would have played out differently if the Blackwell family was not wealthy?

Almost every character in this book was hiding a secret. How did each of their secrets play a role in the plot? Why do you think each character felt they couldn’t share their secret? How did your perception of certain characters change after you learned what they were hiding?