Ricky answers “What was missing in Vanessa's childhood...”

A Goodreads user asked this question about My Dark Vanessa:

What was missing in Vanessa's childhood that made her such easy pickings? I kept waiting for some psychological explanation from her therapist. Vanessa was an only child and, except for a mother who was annoyingly intrusive and sometimes critical, there was no abuse, nothing to make her crave such intense "adoration," no explanation for her being so easily manipulated.

Ricky Strane could also have been testing the waters. Makes compliments to a handful of teenagers and waits to see which one flinches. The story is told fro…moreStrane could also have been testing the waters. Makes compliments to a handful of teenagers and waits to see which one flinches. The story is told from Vanessa's perspective, so she might not have noticed the early advances that were "casting a net".

This story is eerily similar to an English teacher I had in high school (now in prison). Everything from rumors dating back at least a decade before my time and to marrying someone from my graduating year... just a few months after graduation. The predatory nature is well-described in this novel.

But as for doubts about Vanessa's life. Whether she felt lonely? Whether she had a traumatic moment that made her prey? I think the novel points to how predators will test the waters and find an opportunity.

Sick stuff. But an intriguing read. I'm recommending this to all of my HS friends because of the teacher recognition. But I will recommend this to everyone else I know.
(less)

flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more