The Perfect Nanny

The Perfect Nanny is based on a real-world incident that took place in New York but is contextualized in Paris, France. What is the author’s purpose in recontextualizing the story? How does the narrative benefit?

Myriam’s character is used to explore the theme of motherhood, specifically the expectations put on women as mothers. Analyze a scene where Myriam confronts judgments on motherhood.

Louise, “the perfect nanny,” is white and French. She is in the minority compared to the other nannies depicted in the story, most of whom are people of color and immigrants. Why might the author choose to make Louise white?

The narrative uses foreshadowing to build tension. Choose a few examples of foreshadowing in the narrative and explore how they create an ominous tone.

The Epilogue could have been written for Louise’s point of view—for example, explaining why she killed the children. What is the author suggesting by leaving her voiceless? What are some other instances that notably lack Louise’s point of view?

Compare and contrast Louise’s apartment versus Paul and Myriam’s apartment. What symbolic significance do these living spaces hold? Consider the question in relation to themes like class.

What is the significance of Stéphanie’s character to the story, both practically and symbolically?

The Perfect Nanny never shows the actual murder that the book is about. Why might the author choose to not show the act itself?