comment on structure

The book’s structure works on the plot level as well as on the thematic level. While the book is not divided into physical sections, it shows Serafina’s search for her identity using Biltmore Estate as her home and the forest as the place that she must go to on her journey to find herself. She goes to the forest once and learn things. However, she has not learned enough to complete her journey. She follows the river instead of crossing it. This interruption in her journey is appropriate because she is also solving a mystery. Serafina must return to the estate to complete this task. This, however leads her back to the forest where she can do both, solve the mystery of the disappearing children and that of her identity. For her, the two are intertwined. This is the battle she must fight to define her character.