The book is written in narrative language, with four different narrators. The way sentences are constructed and overall feel of the material changes depending on the speaker. Dolores narrates in a matter-of-fact, genuine way that reflects the down-to-earth personality that her community respects. Billy’s narration is darker in nature, touching on the deep pain of losing a wife and children too early. His outlook on life is bleak and his language shows signs of depression.