Point of View

The story is told from a third-person omniscient point of view. There are lots of different characters characters to hear from and about, and this point of view is the most effective way to weave the story together. There are over 40 characters who appear in the novel, but the focus is on a few main characters: Swan, Sister, Josh, Macklin, Roland, and Friend. Secondary characters include Sheila, Leona, Alvin, Paul, and Robin. The author is able to freely move between characters to examine their inner thoughts, and at the same time give commentary and behind-the-scenes information for the reader.

The point of view aids the storytelling because it is easy for the reader to move between the dramas of the characters, though they may be hundreds of miles apart. Being able to hear character's thoughts also aids the reader in putting the big picture together. The...