The Second Life of Mirielle West

Though the backstory of Felix’s death is revealed gradually as the novel unfolds, it is clear that Mirielle is plagued with grief when she arrives at Carville. By the end of the novel, she has found a peace with his death and her role in it. Trace what caused this healing and acceptance to occur. How does residing at Carville enable her grieving process?

Because Mirielle is sent to Carville within the first few chapters, much of what is known about Mirielle’s life in Hollywood is conveyed by flashback. Choose two or three flashbacks to this time and explain their significance to the novel.

Consider the concepts of freedom and imprisonment in the novel. What does the novel suggest true freedom entails?