47 pages • 1 hour read
The Breakdown’s chapters each represent a single day. How does this structure benefit or detract from the narrative arc and the reading experience? How does the concept of time play into the book’s plot and themes?
Compare and contrast Matthew and Rachel, the novel’s two antagonists. Consider what character conventions for antagonists they reinforce or defy, their motivations, and their relationships to each other and to Cass.
Discuss how The Breakdown compares to other psychological thrillers, mysteries, or crime novels. Does it rely on any genre conventions, clichés, or archetypes? Does it upend any? What social and literary trends at the time of the book’s publication might have influenced the story or writing techniques?
Plus, gain access to 8,500+ more expert-written Study Guides.
Including features:
Challenging Authority
View Collection
Fear
View Collection
Guilt
View Collection
Loyalty & Betrayal
View Collection
Memory
View Collection
Power
View Collection
Psychological Fiction
View Collection
Revenge
View Collection
Safety & Danger
View Collection
Trust & Doubt
View Collection
Truth & Lies
View Collection