The Better Sister

The novel’s title serves as a motif throughout the narrative, illustrating The Complexity of Family Dynamics. Chloe initially presents herself as the “better sister,” emphasizing the apparent perfection of her life compared to the chaotic trajectory of her older sister, Nicky. Chloe implies that the contrast between them lies in both personality traits and life choices. She suggests that Nicky’s recklessness and self-destructive streak inevitably led to her losing custody of Ethan. Meanwhile, she attributes her own success to discipline, careful planning, and positive life choices. Ironically, both siblings become emotionally invested in the idea that Chloe is the better sister. For Chloe, this narrative justifies her betrayal of Nicky and her decision to raise her son. For Nicky, it allows her to believe that Chloe provides Ethan with a better life than she ever could.

As the story progresses, Burke reveals how the characters’ roles as “good” and “bad” sisters were cemented in their childhood. Chloe’s acquisition of Nicky’s room, which was spacious enough for a desk, marked the point where the younger sister was defined as studious and ambitious, while her older sibling was labelled a college dropout. The incident conveyed the unspoken message that Chloe was destined for a brilliant future, while Nicky was doomed to failure, and these opposing identities became a self-fulfilling prophecy.