Family

Family is a dominant theme throughout McMorris's novel, exhibited by the many complicated dynamics outlined throughout her narrative. Ellis is shown to have strong ties to his family, especially to his mother, which are strained at times but never break. Henry’s death was a traumatizing event with the potential to tear the Reed family apart, but they have learned to heal together in order to continue living their lives, as he would have wanted them to. The family dynamic presented by the Reeds exhibit the trials and tribulations that arise from tragedy, as well as the overwhelming power that family has to either heal together or to heal apart as a result of it.

Lily's ties to her family are even stronger. She is described as a miracle child by her parents, who have always kept a close guard over her. Lily's family values only...