Place, especially in stories of the South, is as much a character as any human, and inseparable form—in this case even necessary to— the plot.
-- The Narrators (chapter 3)

Importance: This quote shows how Fowler uses the language of rhetorical and literary devices in the commentary of the narrators. This adds to the narrators' omniscience, as they are aware even of the structure of the story. The acknowledgement of the stories structure suggests the narrators are a kind of chorus like those used in Greek tragedies to comment on the dramatic action. The commentary on "character" and "plot" also evokes the Oak Knoll book club, suggesting the narrators commentary mimics a book club discussion by Valerie's friends.

Julia wasn’t a helicopter parent; no, she was worse. She was an entire atmosphere surrounding her daughters’ bodies, controlling their lives.
-- The Narrators (chapter 6)

Importance: This quote reveals why Juniper and Julia’s relationship is strained at the outset of...