Question H

[Tracey]

Were you surprised by the outcome of the subplot concerning Lizzie Beale? Why? What depth or dimension does this subplot add to the themes and structure the novel?

[Kris (My Novelesque Life)]

You want Lizzie to survive, especially being so young, but the reality is that many children died from diphtheria. I wasn't surprised as much as disappointed. I see this series as trying to reveal the realism of the time and so I understand why Lizzie died but am sad just the same.

[Phrynne]

I was sad about that too but as you say the reality of it was that many children did die of diphtheria at that time. Thank heavens for the development of immunisation!

[Tracey]

I was also sad about Lizzie dying. Yes thank goodness for immunisation!!