Regarding question #1 : It is possible that Winter has a strong ethical core and when he realizes a situatiton is corrupt, he wants to right it. Many others may experience the same ‘pull’ but in Winter’s case he has the courage, brains, strength, astuteness, intuitiveness, etc to actually get involved.
Regarding question #2 : This is a fascinating quote because it can be interpreted in many ways. Bonds that connect us on a human soul level, bonds that connect us as in bondage. Agnes’ relationship with the children was especially poignant – a confident, parental fill-in – kind, caring and unselfish. An ind who turned around her life to embrace love, truth, honesty and courage. Most appreciated the connection b/t Winter and Mrs. Lord. The author certainly chose appropriate names for all the characters. The little dance they do is enjoyable and heartwarming.
Regarding question #3: I probably related to some aspect of each character; the human struggle of chosing good over evil. The dark sides that need reigning in. The light sides that need to be shared yet protected. The facade of bravado, the repungnace of cruelty to others. We all belong to the fates of the good, the bad, the ugly and the beautiful.
Regarding question #4 : Piquing the readers’ curiousity was part of the appeal of the story line. Wondering all the way through who the culprit could be. I was surprised it was Mateo’s younger brother but also, on some level, found it unlikely that one so young could be so strong as to tear Agnes’ clothing and beat her, shot people in cold blood, etc. Speaks to the degree of desparaton one can experience even at a young age. An important note to the reader is the power of addiction. The power of shame. The power of humiliation. All of which can be destructive forces if not healed. Tthe power of Faith as seen in Agnes; not discussed – more implied.
Regarding question #5. In order to answer this question, one must first contemplate if he/she has the awareness, insight, astuteness that Agnes has in making the decision.
Regarding question #6. This read offered many life lessons: Strength (or weakness) of character, struggling with decisions of right an wrong, succumbing to corruption, the need for healing the hurts so they don’t get acted out and displaced. The reality that life can be cold and chilling (Winter) or fascinating and curious (Cameron = mischievious). Life can also be difficult – lots of struggles, temptations, cruelty. Solid friends, nannies, partners, mentors, etc is what makes the difference. Most important is Faith in God.