One for the Murphys

Carley tends to put herself down, both in her interior monologue and in conversation. For example, she thinks that she’ll never be anyone’s hero and, later, that college is out of the question for her. How is Carley incorrect in her views about herself and her traits? In what scenes or situations does her maturity, empathy, and cleverness show through despite her own self-deprecating remarks? What other good traits does Carley possess that you can see through indirect characterization?

Mother-daughter relationships are complex in One for the Murphys. Compare and contrast the relationship of Carley and her mother with that of Toni and her mother. How does the relationship between Toni and her mother compare to the mother-daughter-like relationship between Carley and Mrs. Murphy? Cite at least three scenes or character reactions to develop and support each answer.

Carley coaches Daniel on courage as well as basketball skills. The irony is that she soon must summon the courage to leave Connecticut and move back to Las Vegas with her mother. Name three or four instances in the novel in which Carley—before leaving the Murphys—displays courage or fortitude? How does this kind of bravery or courage impact others?

The author characterizes Carley’s mother indirectly through Carley’s thoughts, memories, and flashbacks until her mother enters the narrative in the phone call and room visits. How is she similar or dissimilar to the picture that Carley conveys? Support your thoughts with details from the text.

Take a closer look at the chapter titles. Many are witty plays on words or clever labels for chapter events. Choose three chapter titles that strongly demonstrate Carley’s quick wit. How do the titles relate to the events of the chapter? In what ways do the titles represent Carley’s emotions? Cite specific chapter details to support your responses.

One for the Murphys carefully structures plot events around the memories of a character. How would the plot differ if Carley remembered her repressed memories sooner—or later? Speculate about two or three alternate plotlines in which her memories appear in a different place each time. Using plot and character details, stay true to the characterizations and general resolution of the novel.

Toni Byers and Carley initially seem to have little in common except sharp tongues. Why do Toni and Carley become such good friends? What traits and opinions do they share? What qualities do you think inspire each girl to respect the other, whether directly or indirectly? Cite evidence from the text to support your thoughts.

One for the Murphys features a theme of self-sacrifice for the good of others, as Mrs. Murphy demonstrates through diligent service to her family. What other characters display self-sacrifice? List examples of individual instances of self-sacrifice in the story that show which characters offer the most to others.