The Women: A Novel

Frankie is compelled to serve in the Vietnam War because her family lauds veterans. According to The Women, what are the qualities of a hero? Which of these qualities does Frankie possess?

What role does Frankie’s mother play in the novel? How does her character parallel Frankie? In what ways are the two women foils?

Though Ethel and Barb witness similar atrocities as Frankie during their tours, neither seems to experience the same difficulty acclimating to civilian life. What might be the reason(s) for this? How are Ethel and Barb’s circumstances different from Frankie’s?