Character Clues

Character Analysis

Actions

One way we know that Becca is such a dedicated daughter and granddaughter is how she's always doing stuff for people. When Gemma was alive, Becca visited almost every day; her sisters Shana and Sylvia, on the other hand, "only visited twice in four years." (2.20) Sheesh.

And then, after Gemma's funeral, when Sylvia asks where Becca is, Shana says, "Serving coffee, no doubt. Dividing lumpy pies. Entertaining Gemma's friends. What else?" (4.13) Hmm. Who's the jerk: the one making salty remarks, or the one serving coffee and pie? Truly, we may never know.

Clothing

The author makes Shana and Sylvia seem shallow by always mentioning the brand names of their stuff, including their "Ferragamo boots" (2.10) and Shana's "Vuitton tote." (2.33) The fabrics and finishes of their clothes suggest a certain fussiness. Shana "pick[s] off an invisible hair from her cream-colored blazer" (2.44), and Sylvia "brush[es] off the silk shirt to rid it of hairs only she could see." (4.8)

We're starting to get the sense these gals aren't much fun at parties.

Occupation

Becca may be a Nancy Drew in her spare time, but her jobby-job (as a reporter) is an important tool of characterization. Even before she goes poking around in Gemma's past, we understand that she has an inborn curiosity.

Also, Becca doesn't just write for any old rag; she works for a local newspaper called the Advocate. "It's not underground; it's alternative," Becca tells her sister. (2.59) The distinction is important to her. Writing for a local weekly paper, Becca's projects aren't about big national news; instead, they're centered on her community.

This detail helps establish Becca as a person who values authenticity. She's really real. Really, though.