There are two main settings in the novel: Southport, North Carolina, and Dorchester, Massachusetts. Compare and contrast these settings. Why do you think Sparks chose to use these two settings?

Kevin quotes the Bible often. How do his religious beliefs help him? How do they harm him? How does Sparks use elements of the Bible to illustrate Kevin’s state of mind at the end of the novel?

Kevin often states that he is a good detective. How does the reader know if this statement is true? Why does Kevin feel the need to state this so often? How does it relate to his belief that those around him are talking about him behind his back?