Which aspects of early 1980s culture does the novel portray, and how does this culture influence the novel’s plot and themes?

In terms of its plot, structure, and themes, how does A is for Alibi both conform to and diverge from the traditional expectations of the mystery genre? Which narrative choices seem particularly innovative and why?

How do the crimes portrayed in the novel compare with the real-life crimes occurring in Southern California at the time the novel was written? Do any historical cases mirror the novel’s events? If so, how does this illuminate the novel’s themes?