Big Little Lies

Much of the drama in Big Little Lies plays out at a primary school, both for the children and their parents. Explain what commentary Moriarty might be making about childhood, parenting, and community through this decision and how the setting contributes to this.

Choose a parent and their child (or children) from the novel. Then, compare and contrast these two family members. How are they markedly alike or surprisingly different?

How does Madeline recognize her privilege throughout the novel? What, if anything, does she learn about her relationship to the rest of the world?

Describe how the testimonials contribute to the pacing and themes of the novel. Cite multiple examples throughout.

What message does Moriarty impart on the reader regarding domestic violence? Use multiple characters’ behaviors to help prove your argument.

Using direct examples from the novel, describe and explain the breadcrumbs that Moriarty places for the reader that lead up to the reveal of Saxon Banks’ real identity.

What, if any, red herrings do Moriarty employ to keep readers on their toes? What characters and details put the reader down a certain path of thinking, only to be upended later?

Does Moriarty’s choice to jump between characters help her develop her themes and symbols? Do you think using multiple character arcs to deliver a message is more, equally, or less effective than having one main character?