A Simple Favor

Analyze the character of Stephanie. How does the reader’s perception of her change over the course of the novel? How does Bell effect this change?

Both Stephanie and Emily bring up the idea of secrets, but they have different perspectives on them. What do these characters have to say about secrets, and how does secrecy contribute to the themes of the novel?

Discuss the meaning of the title, A Simple Favor. Pay attention to the various meanings that could be attributed to it, as well as the way the meaning of the title shifts as the story goes on.

Discuss Bell’s exploration of motherhood. How does she use the characters of Stephanie and Emily to approach the topic from a variety of perspectives?

Analyze the character of Sean. What part does he play in Emily and Stephanie’s plans? Does he have any plans of his own? Include an analysis of Sean’s defining characteristics.

Both Stephanie and Emily find being bad irresistible. How do they explain their attraction to illicit behavior, and how does this preoccupation shape their lives?

Analyze Bell’s use of noir conventions, as well as references to other famous noir works. How does this strategy contribute to the meaning, tone, and style of the novel?

Analyze Emily’s relationship with Eve and her experience of being a twin. How does the history of their relationship inform her actions, or lack of action, toward Eve on their last day together?