Compare and contrast the novel’s treatment of adult relationships with those of Susie’s generation. Why do you think Sebold chose to portray Lindsey and Samuel’s relationship in such an idealized fashion?

Sebold devotes a portion of the novel to exploring George Harvey’s childhood and inner thoughts. Why does Harvey kill, and why do you think Sebold includes this information? 

The novel seems to argue that with great trauma comes healing, and reconstruction follows destruction. How does Sebold support this argument, and do you agree with her assessment?