The Family Next Door

Compare how Essie and Nigel redefine their families at the novel’s conclusion. While Essie integrates her biological history into her existing identity, Nigel prioritizes emotional commitment over biological certainty. How do these parallel resolutions contribute to the novel’s argument about the nature of family?

Analyze the roles of Ben, Nigel, and Lucas in the novel. How do these men function as catalysts or foils for their partners, and what does their collective portrayal suggest about the novel’s perspective on masculinity within the domestic sphere?

Discuss the novel’s portrayal of gender roles and relationships in Pleasant Court.

The Family Next Door uses conventions of the domestic thriller, yet it also explores real-world psychological conditions like postpartum psychosis. How does the novel use the suspenseful framework of its genre to investigate and destigmatize this complex psychological condition?

Beyond Essie’s postpartum depression, how do the experiences of Ange, Fran, and Barbara collectively challenge myths about motherhood?

Examine the perspective-related literary devices in The Family Next Door. How do strategies like multiple points of view and anonymous commentary contribute to the thematic meaning of the novel?

Discuss the role that setting plays in the novel. In your answer, consider the larger setting of Sandringham, a suburb of Melbourne, as well as Pleasant Court itself.

Trace the evolution of Isabelle and Essie’s relationship, and examine Essie’s connection with Isabelle in contrast to the neighborhood’s general reaction to her.