Annie and Frances exemplify opposite approaches to the theme Appearance Versus Reality in Small Towns. What traits, attitudes or experiences shape their vastly different experiences with Castle Knoll?

How does the motif of birds both inform and misdirect the mystery in the novel?

Compared to many of the other characters, Saxon and Elva feel one-dimensional. What about their characters makes them appear this way? What could be Perrin’s motive for leaving them less developed than other minor characters like Mr. Gordon or Oliver?