Something Wilder

Craft an argument that supports or refutes the following claim: Lily Wilder’s negative relationship with her late father Duke Wilder dictates how she sees herself. Consider how Lily remembers Duke and how her childhood past with him has impacted her life in the present.

Craft an argument that analyzes the narrative, symbolic, and thematic resonances of the novel’s central treasure hunt. What is the significance of this adventure to each of the characters? What is the significance of the codes and puzzles they solve along the way?

Analyze the relationship between the novel’s thematic explorations and its point-of-view choices. Consider the effects of the third-person narration and how the novel’s trajectory and examinations would differ if the author had used a different point of view.