Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of animal death.

Stone Yard Devotional is set in a town on the Monaro Plains, a distinct environment in Australia. The Monaro is characterized by its relative desolation, and the landscape itself plays a role in the novel. The name Monaro draws meaning from its landscape and represents the Aboriginal history of Australia: “The name ‘Monaro’ is of aboriginal origin, meaning a high plateau or high plain” (Stanger, Andrew. “The Monaro Plains.” Mountain Journal). The high plateau of the Monaro provides a dry landscape with extensive views of the surrounding area. This allows the protagonist to look out into the distance and meditate on her life. Her view is largely uninterrupted, its geological history clearing it of any excess: “This seemingly desolate land, also known as the ‘Treeless Plain’ has little rainfall, poor soil and cold nights. Formed over millions of years with numerous volcanic flows, this region has been swept clean of boulders and rocks during the Ice Ages” (“Sydney Australia Tourist Guides.“ Australia Tourist Guide). By using the setting of the Monaro Plains, Charlotte Wood creates a connection between the protagonist’s personal journey and the land around her.