In 2014, Australian author Liane Moriarty released a novel titled ‘Big Little Lies’. The book quickly gained popularity due to its gripping narrative, complex characters, and the author’s masterful writing. The novel’s success led to the creation of a TV series by the same name, produced by David E. Kelley and starring A-list Hollywood celebrities. Both the book and the TV series are centered around three mothers in a small coastal town and explore themes such as friendship, parenting, marriage, and secrets.
The TV series, like the book, has been praised for its strong storytelling and character development. However, there are a few differences between the two that make each a unique experience. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive book summary and TV series summary, explore the characters and settings, and delve into the intriguing aspects that make ‘Big Little Lies’ a standout story.
Comprehensive Book Summary of ‘Big Little Lies’
The novel ‘Big Little Lies’ is a tale of three women – Madeline, Celeste, and Jane – living in the tranquil seaside town of Pirriwee. Madeline is a fiercely loyal friend, Celeste is a beautiful woman hiding a dark secret, and Jane is a young single mother haunted by her past. The book begins with a murder at the school trivia night, but the identity of the victim and the murderer is not revealed until the end, keeping readers on their toes.
The story weaves through the lives of these three women, their families, their friendships, and the secrets they keep. It explores the facades people put up in society, the lies they tell themselves and others, and the impact of those lies. The book also delves into serious issues like domestic abuse and bullying, portraying them with raw honesty and sensitivity.
The narrative is structured in a way that intersperses the present-day investigation with flashback sequences, providing a comprehensive understanding of the characters and their motivations. As the mystery unravels, the reader is left with a profound understanding of human nature and the power of truth.
Comprehensive Summary of TV Series ‘Big Little Lies’
The TV series ‘Big Little Lies’ follows the same premise as the book, maintaining the central characters and their stories. The series starts with a murder at a school trivia night, with the identity of the killer and the victim concealed. As the episodes unfold, the lives of the three women and their families are explored in detail.
Despite keeping the core plot, the series introduces some changes to make the narrative more cinematic and add an extra layer of complexity. For instance, the series explores the character of Bonnie Carlson in more depth, revealing her troubled past. The series also adds more tension and drama to the relationships between the characters, making it a compelling watch.
In its two-season run, the TV series has managed to maintain the book’s essence while offering a fresh perspective. The performances, cinematography, and the suspenseful storytelling make it an engaging adaptation of the book.
Parent Guide to ‘Big Little Lies’
As a parent, it’s essential to know what content your child is consuming. ‘Big Little Lies’, both the book and the TV series, deal with mature themes such as domestic violence, infidelity, and bullying. The narrative does not shy away from showing the harsh realities of these issues, making it unsuitable for younger audiences.
However, for older teenagers and adults, ‘Big Little Lies’ can be a powerful tool to start discussions about these topics. The story promotes empathy, understanding, and the importance of truth. It shows the consequences of keeping secrets and the impact of our actions on others. As a parent, you can use these themes to engage in meaningful conversations with your older children.
Exploration of When and Where ‘Big Little Lies’ Takes Place
The setting of ‘Big Little Lies’ plays a significant role in the story. The novel is set in the fictional town of Pirriwee, located on the northern beaches of Sydney, Australia. The tranquil seaside town is the perfect backdrop for the turbulent lives of the characters. The novel also spans several months, leading up to the fateful trivia night.
On the other hand, the TV series shifts the location to Monterey, California, while maintaining the beach town vibe. The series also condenses the timeline, with most events occurring within weeks of each other. This change in setting and time adds a unique American touch to the story, making it more relatable for the international audience.
Who’s Who in ‘Big Little Lies’
The characters in ‘Big Little Lies’ are complex, flawed, and incredibly human.
The three main characters are Madeline Mackenzie, a feisty woman who stands up for her friends; Celeste Wright, a former lawyer hiding her abusive marriage; and Jane Chapman, a single mother with a traumatic past.
Other significant characters include Ed Mackenzie, Madeline’s loyal and loving husband; Perry Wright, Celeste’s abusive husband; and Ziggy Chapman, Jane’s son who becomes a victim of school bullying.
There’s also Renata Klein, an ambitious woman who often clashes with Madeline, and Bonnie Carlson, a yoga instructor with hidden depths.
Notable Guest Stars in ‘Big Little Lies’
The TV series ‘Big Little Lies’ boasts an impressive cast, including several notable guest stars.
In the second season, Meryl Streep joins the cast as Mary Louise Wright, the grieving mother of Perry Wright. Her performance adds another level of intensity to the series.
Other guest stars include Alexander Skarsgí¥rd as Perry Wright, Iain Armitage as Ziggy Chapman, and P.J. Byrne as Principal Nippal.
Memorable Quotes from ‘Big Little Lies’
‘Big Little Lies’ is filled with memorable quotes that reflect the characters’ struggles, strengths, and relationships.
Some of these quotes include:
“You want to do good in this world? You have to be prepared to get your hands dirty.†– Madeline
“Sometimes, I’m just holding onto this idea of perfection so tight, something has to give.†– Celeste
“I want more than just a husband who doesn’t beat me.†– Jane
These quotes encapsulate the essence of the characters and the themes the story explores.
The Role of Michael Kiwanuka’s Soundtrack in ‘Big Little Lies’
The soundtrack of ‘Big Little Lies’, composed by Michael Kiwanuka, plays a crucial role in setting the mood and tone of the series.
His soulful music, coupled with the beautifully shot scenes, creates a haunting and mesmerizing atmosphere that draws the audience in.
The opening track ‘Cold Little Heart’ perfectly encapsulates the melancholy and tension of the story.
Curiosities about ‘Big Little Lies’
‘Big Little Lies’ is filled with hidden details and curiosities. For instance, the author Liane Moriarty makes a cameo in the series.
Another interesting fact is that the book was initially intended to be a standalone, but the success of the TV series led to a second season and potential for more.
Tips for Cosplay and Dressing Like Characters from ‘Big Little Lies’
If you’re a fan of ‘Big Little Lies’ and want to dress up as your favorite characters, here are a few tips.
For Madeline‘s look, opt for bold colors and statement accessories.
Celeste’s style is more sophisticated and elegant, with a preference for high-end brands. Jane’s wardrobe is casual and comfortable, reflecting her laid-back personality.
Liane Moriarty: Bio and Works
Liane Moriarty is an acclaimed Australian author known for her compelling narratives and complex characters. Before ‘Big Little Lies’, she had already gained fame with her novels ‘The Husband’s Secret’ and ‘What Alice Forgot’.
Her unique storytelling style and ability to weave suspense have made her a favorite among readers worldwide.
Remakes, Sequels, and Spin-offs of ‘Big Little Lies’
As of now, ‘Big Little Lies’ has not been remade or spun-off into any other media. However, the TV series did get a second season due to its immense popularity. Fans are hopeful for a third season, although it has not been officially confirmed.
David E. Kelley: His Other Media Works
David E. Kelley is a renowned TV producer and writer, known for creating successful shows like ‘Ally McBeal’, ‘Boston Legal’, and ‘The Practice’. His work on ‘Big Little Lies’ has been praised for its faithful adaptation, strong storytelling, and character development.
Media Similar to ‘Big Little Lies’
If you enjoyed ‘Big Little Lies’, you might also like other media that explore similar themes. Some recommendations include ‘The Affair’, ‘Sharp Objects’, and ‘The Undoing’. These series also delve into complex characters, secret lives, and the consequences of lies.
Other Notable Works by Liane Moriarty
Besides ‘Big Little Lies’, Liane Moriarty has written several other acclaimed novels, such as ‘The Husband’s Secret’, ‘What Alice Forgot’, and ‘Nine Perfect Strangers’. Each of these books offers a gripping narrative and explores themes like secrets, relationships, and the complexity of human nature.
Book Club Questions about ‘Big Little Lies’
If you’re discussing ‘Big Little Lies’ in your book club, here are a few questions to get the conversation started:
- How do the lies told by the characters impact their lives and relationships?
- How does the setting contribute to the story’s overall mood and narrative?
- How does the book portray domestic violence and its impact on the victim and their family?
Video Games Related to ‘Big Little Lies’
While there are no video games directly related to ‘Big Little Lies’, fans of the series might enjoy games with similar themes of mystery, suspense, and character exploration.
Games like ‘Heavy Rain’, ‘Life is Strange’, and ‘Until Dawn’ offer immersive narratives that will make you feel like you’re part of a thrilling story.
Travel Guide to Visit ‘Big Little Lies’ Locations
While the town of Pirriwee from the book is fictional, the TV series was shot in beautiful Monterey, California. Fans of the series can visit locations like Fisherman’s Wharf, Del Monte Beach, and Pacific Grove, which were used as filming locations. These stunning spots offer breathtaking views and give you a feel of the serene yet tense atmosphere portrayed in the series.
Ratings: Best Episodes and Seasons of ‘Big Little Lies’
Both seasons of ‘Big Little Lies’ have received high ratings from critics and viewers. Some of the most highly-rated episodes include the season 1 finale ‘You Get What You Need’ and the season 2 premiere ‘What Have They Done?’.
The performances, storytelling, and the suspenseful plot make these episodes standouts.
Conclusion
‘Big Little Lies’, both the book and the TV series, offers a captivating exploration of human nature, relationships, and the consequences of our actions.
Whether you’re a fan of the book, the series, or both, there’s a lot to discover and discuss about this story. So, dive in, uncover the layers, and let the secrets of ‘Big Little Lies’ unfold.
