All Her Little Secrets

Describe the relationship between Ellice and Vera. Is Vera’s code of a “grave secret” helpful or harmful to Ellice in her life? What is the significance of their relationship at the end of the novel?

In what ways do Ellice’s actions differ from the actions of Hardy or Jonathan? How does Morris distinguish between Ellice’s actions and the actions of the antagonists in the novel?

Describe the role of the elephant African proverb in the novel. In what ways does this proverb relate to the plot or the character’s actions and motives?

Why is the setting of Atlanta, and the greater setting of the American south, essential to the story? In what ways does Morris address the significance of southern history and how does this effect Ellice?

Describe Martha’s significance in the novel. Why do Ellice and Sam have such different views on her role in their abuse? Is she a sympathetic character? Why or why not?

Ellice is suspicious of law enforcement because of her past. In what ways does Detective Bradford feed into Ellice’s suspicions and in what ways does she subvert Ellice’s expectations?

In what ways does Morris foreshadow the existence of The Brethren? How does Max and Jonathan’s behavior alert Ellice to the possibility of a hate group in Houghton?

Is Ellice’s desire to change Houghton internally misguided? Or does Morris suggest that change can happen internally at the corporate level? Cite passages from the text to support your answer.