As a boy who is neurodivergent, Robin finds it difficult to integrate into society. How do his variously diagnosed conditions manifest in his behavior? How do his conditions affect other characters?

Theo tries his best to be a single parent but is often critical of his parenting style. Is Theo too harsh on himself?

Alyssa is a strong presence in the novel even though she died before the narrative takes place. How does her memory haunt the characters and how do they interact with her?