Most of All You critiques societal judgment against sex workers. By portraying Ellie’s career as a consequence of systemic economic failure, and by revealing her inner narrative, the novel challenges stigmatizing or reductive attitudes toward sex workers, and the story’s argument is supported by research. Sociological studies, such as those from the Urban Institute, demonstrate a strong correlation between a lack of emotional and financial support and entry into sex work (Dank, Meredith. “Four steps for keeping at-risk youth from engaging in the sex trade.” Urban Institute, 24 Oct. 2013). Although these studies recognize that sex work may be a choice, they emphasize that—like all work—it may be undertaken through necessity or lack of alternative opportunities. The novel exemplifies this argument through Ellie’s experience. Through Ellie’s first-person narration, the novel shows that, in her case, she has taken work at the Platinum Pearl out of financial necessity. The novel also depicts how sex workers can be subjected to exploitation through Ellie’s boss, Rodney, who commodifies the dancers by telling them, “Neither one of you is worth more than your tits and ass, so keep ’em in shape” (57).

Ellie is shown to be trapped in a cycle of financial instability, highlighted when her car breaks down and she has no money for repairs or groceries, leaving her stranded and vulnerable. The link between financial and sexual vulnerability is made explicit when Tommy Hull offers Ellie a lift in order to sexually assault her. This scene is also an example of the social stigma and physical danger that sex workers can face in the real world. Throughout the novel, this stigma is violently enacted  across different social strata and contexts. For example, Tommy Hull, who assaults Ellie after she refuses his advances, calls her a “cheap slut” (30), while Dominic also abuses her verbally and sexually. By inviting empathy for Ellie’s experiences, Sheridan challenges readers to look beyond simplistic moral judgments and recognize the complexity of personal choices and the impacts of economic precarity and social stigma.