Stillhouse Lake

Gwen has a complicated relationship with trust. Consider how the concept of trust is explored through Gwen’s character development in the novel.

Analyze the novel’s critique of the criminal justice system, its purpose, and efficacy, using examples from the text to support your argument.

How does the presentation of law enforcement members influence the exploration of safety in the novel? Use quotations from the text to support your response.

What role does misogyny play in Mel’s crimes and other copycat murders? Does the novel portray any more subtle instances of discrimination against women? If so, what are they?

Consider the function of names in the novel. Choose two characters that have multiple names or nicknames, and explore whether their different names or nicknames reflect distinct aspects of their personality. Support your answer with quotations from the text.

Compare the way that Gwen treats her children at the start of the novel with the way she’s treating them by the end of the novel. How does Gwen’s strategy of protecting her children change once she realizes that she should protect their emotional well-being as well as their physical safety?

Analyze Kezia’s role. What does she represent and why is she significant? Support your answer with textual evidence.

The shared trauma of being harmed by Mel brings Gwen and Sam closer together. What does this positive strand add to the narrative?