One outstanding technical accomplishment of the novel is its simplicity, remarked upon by many critics. In fact, simplicity in terms of plot, construction, and subject is the hallmark of this novel. The denouement is revealed at the start when the author asks the reader, "what can you say about a twenty-five year old girl who died."

This opening sentence sets the tragic tone for the novel. Coupled with the opening scene, the marriage vows and the leukemia all point to a sad end for a brilliant and likable character. The very start of the novel evokes the essence of love, tenderness, family tradition, conflict and brilliance.

As far as style is concerned, the diction is contemporary and collegiate.

Segal has been praised for his sensitive, flashy, endearing ear for dialogue.

Indeed, the entire novel is built upon dialogue. One critic believes that Segal uses dialogue as a device...