One of Us Is Back

Why does Addy watch Jake give a speech on public access television? What is she hoping to see? Does this help or hinder her in processing her trauma?

Compare Phoebe’s reason for watching Jake’s speech to Addy’s reason for watching Jake’s speech. How are their motives similar and different?

How does the One of Us Is Lying series exemplify and depart from the conventions of YA mystery thrillers? What is its message about the use of violence to solve problems?

Are parents positive or negative influences in the protagonists’ lives? How do the protagonists shape their own identities despite their parents’ expectations?

Does Vanessa’s donation to the Trevor Project suffice in demonstrating her apology for bullying LGBTQ+ students? Why or why not? Use examples from the text in your response.

Chelsea claims her motives are justice and redemption. How do Chelsea’s motives compare to Simon/Jake’s in the first novel and Jared’s in the second? Is Chelsea correct in saying Jake would never have stopped hurting people? Is Chelsea as guilty as Jake and Jared? Why do you think McManus allowed Chelsea to get away when Jake and Jared went to jail?

Both Chelsea and Phoebe keep secrets about their brothers. Compare and contrast their actions. Who has the right to choose who should be punished and who should be allowed a second chance?

Addy struggles throughout the novel to understand her newfound feelings for Keely while Phoebe keeps Knox at arm’s length due to her secret regarding Owen. What do these actions say about each girl’s trauma and what leads to a resolution of their issues?