Diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder, Matthew often gives into his compulsion to clean himself and the surfaces around him. How does Matthew’s obsessive cleaning habits affect his loved ones?

The story is told entirely from the perspective of Matthew, a 12-year-old boy who has OCD. How does this choice affect our understanding of the character? How does this choice strengthen the book’s themes?

Describe Thompson’s narrative tone and writing style. How does her distinctive style inform and give life to the story’s characters, themes, and setting?