The Nest

Things do not end up the way many characters in the novel expected nor initially wanted them to. Which characters end up happier or somehow better off in not getting what they wanted? What does this suggest about money and happiness?

The novel is fraught with secrets among the characters. Choose two or three secrets and examine their ramifications. Are any of these secrets justifiably kept?

Leo Plumb is arguably the novel’s main character, as his actions set the plot in motion, and many key scenes revolve around his actions and choices. Is Leo a protagonist or antagonist? Support your response with specific details from the text.

How is the setting important to the novel? How does New York City function as a key narrative element?

How are minor characters—such as Tommy O’Toole, Vinnie Massaro, and others—important to the plot and conflict? How do the actions of Leo Plumb affect their lives?

How would the novel differ if it were presented from a single point of view rather than multiple points of view? What are the advantages and disadvantages of the point-of-view choices the author makes?

The Epilogue depicts the lives of Bea, Melody, and Jack one year after the loss of The Nest. How are their lives different than the lives they planned for? How has each character changed by the loss of The Nest? Are these changes positive or negative?

Paul and Bea both spot Leo in the Caribbean. Even though they traveled there to locate Leo, neither tries to speak to him. Why not? Why does Leo choose not approach them?