The Last Party

In the final chapter of the novel, Grant references infanticide in bird species, stating, “It generally occurs when resources are scarce, and is a strategy to reduce their competition” (336). What role does the idea of competition play in the lives and behaviors of the novel’s characters?

The Last Party explores how Perla’s twisted interior contrasts with her polished exterior. How does the novel use Perla’s external appearance and lifestyle to explore the tensions between appearances and reality?

The Last Party is set in Brighton Estates, a fictional gated community in the real suburb of Pasadena. What effect does the novel’s setting have on its narrative and themes?

Perla expertly plays on society’s perception of her as a wealthy, attractive wife and mother. How does the novel explore the nature of gender dynamics and/or class dynamics?

Analyze the novel’s narrative structure. How does this structure affect the characterization and plot? How does it help to illuminate the text’s key themes and ideas?

Leewood characterizes Perla as “evil” while evading acknowledging his own abusive parenting of her. How does the novel explore the idea of nature versus nurture in shaping a person’s personality or actions?

The Last Party includes explorations of child sexual abuse, child abuse, and emotional abuse. Are these discussions treated with the appropriate nuance and sensitivity? Does the character of Perla contribute to any negative or problematic ideas about survivors?

Using Perla and Leewood’s relationship as an example, discuss The Last Party’s thesis on parent-child dynamics and the dangers of control in relationships. How do these themes intersect and strengthen one another?