Point of View

The novel is written from the first point of view, told from the point of view of both protagonists, Marco and Isaac. This is achieved because each chapter is told from the perspective of one of these two boys. This has a few primary effects. The first effect is that the reader is allowed the opportunity to understand the viewpoints of each of these characters. This includes their thoughts, motivations, and impressions of and feelings about each other. Because the boys’ friendship is a central aspect of the novel, it is important that the perspectives of both of the boys is shown. This effect could be achieved through third person omniscient narration, but that would lack the personal feel that the first person pronouns provide.

The second way in which this technique influences the novel is by creating suspense. At times throughout the novel, the...