Pierce Hall

Pierce Hall is the former liberal arts college used by CPS for the school of good mothers. The narrator describes, “The college was founded by Quakers. The bike racks are still here. Recycling bins. Bulletin boards with staples. White Adirondack chairs. Blue emergency lights and call boxes” (72). Frida is relieved to be on a campus, instead of in prison. Her familiarity with campuses, thanks to her work, comforts her upon her arrival. The picturesque beauty of Pierce Hall contrasts with the intense misery felt by the mothers housed there.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Frida moved from New York City to Philadelphia with Gust for his work. Frida has hardly any friends of her own there. At the start of the novel, she resents that she must continue to live in Philadelphia for Harriet’s sake.

The Bungalows

During the last few months at school, the mothers are each assigned...