Alice holds Polly’s hand as her aunt speaks her last words, “Thank you very much” (1), one of Polly’s common expressions. Who was Polly thanking and why?

Researchers have long said there are five distinct aspects to the process of grief. What are the five stages of grief? Which are evident among the characters of Pie?

The discord between Alice and Ruth had been present from Alice’s infancy when Ruth decided her daughter favored Polly. Why does their conflict become so intense after Polly’s death?