Content Warning: This section contains discussions of suicide, domestic violence, and pregnancy loss.

Eudora and Rose’s close bond establishes and develops the theme of intergenerational friendship. Together, they create a deeply rewarding relationship that allows both to overcome their individual struggles—something that proved difficult for them to do independently. This suggests that the very thing that can make intergenerational friendships difficult—the divergent perspectives each party brings to the table—is also what makes them rewarding.

Eudora is initially reluctant to engage with either Rose or Stanley, but she is drawn to Rose’s energetic embrace of life, which the novel suggests is in part a function of her youth: “This little girl is like a grenade packed full of joie de vivre, and Eudora has no idea why she’s been chosen as a friend. Eudora is everything Rose isn’t: old, disillusioned, and able to keep her emotions in check” (118). Rose’s relative naivete allows her to see the best in everyone; it simply would not occur to her to see Eudora as Eudora sees herself, and this fresh perspective helps Eudora reassess the value of her own life. As Rose worms her way into Eudora’s heart, Eudora also learns to be freer with her feelings, helping her to connect further with those around her—not just Rose, but also Stanley, Maggie, and even

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