The Dollhouse Murders

Throughout the book, Amy struggles with what it means to grow up. She turns 13 years old at the story’s middle, which sets her on the path of getting older without yet understanding how to translate age into maturity. Amy doesn’t get along well with her mother, and her father is distant. Aunt Clare serves as Amy’s adult role model, but Amy soon learns that Aunt Clare has her own issues that keep her from growing as a person. Aunt Clare ran from responsibility when she was younger and does not move beyond that point in her development until she deals with past events and her guilt.

At the beginning of the book, Amy is frustrated with her life and with having to take care of Louann. Like Aunt Clare, she runs away from responsibility, wanting to live on her own terms. At first, living with Aunt Clare is new and exciting. Amy thinks all her problems are solved. When the dollhouse starts coming alive, life at Aunt Clare’s house develops its own troubles. Amy sees Aunt Clare’s distress about the past, which is triggered by the dollhouse. Amy wants to help and believes by keeping secrets about the dollhouse, she is protecting Aunt Clare.