Why do you think the author chose to introduce the events of the novel from an omniscient viewpoint?

The novel begins with a prologue from an omniscient viewpoint that describes the bleak setting of Cameron Bright's death. Why do you think the author chose to introduce the events of the novel in this way?

The omniscient voice helps us see the perspectives of all the characters, bringing home how truth and memory are always colored by the person to whom they belong. It also helps us understand how abuse damages each person, yet in a different way.

In some ways, this novel reminded me of the writing of English author, Thomas Hardy. The vastness of this landscape, the intense heat of the sun, the dust and grit become almost like an impersonal overlord - and then if one looks down from that overview, he or she will find tiny characters moving about - almost like ants - living a story that is crucial to the lives of those living it, but in the big picture really has little or no effect whatsoever on that land. Harper starts with the biggest picture she can create, the least personal (how ironic that she includes Cameron's painted picture as a major focus of her plotline), and slowly, deliberately and so, so cleverly pulls her reader into a close-up of one family within that vast landscape.

Well said Susiej and Paulak! With the omniscient viewpoint, Jane Harper was able to move about the plot of the story freely so she wouldn't be trapped in one character's point of view.

Because the Outback itself serves as a character, using the omniscient POV allows Harper to pan out in focus, emphasizing the vastness of the setting and its intractable nature. As susiej deftly put it: Harper's narrative tells "a story that is crucial to the lives of those living it, but in the big picture really has little or no effect whatsoever on that land."

I think the author wanted us to learn about all the characters equally, which really helped to hold my interest, helped me to believe along with Nathan that his brother was innocent, and get to know the entire family.