As per the given story titled 'The Reluctant Neighbor' authored by Clara Bohrod, the best clue to the theme would be 'the manner in which the characters respond to the obstacles or troubles.' Since theme is demonstrated as the underlying idea or message of a work, the characters' preparation for the problems('preparations for welcoming new neighbor, Coco's imagination of her neighbor's face, and women peeking her head through the crack before opening the door') <u>gives the audience's a clue that 'one must be prepared for upcoming challenges in life instead of running away from them or completely ignoring them</u>.' Thus, this idea combines the entire story in a single unified and universal thought/idea through which the readers can relate.
The clues in a novel are the map that leads your readers (and the detective) through the labyrinth that you have created for them, allowing them to reach the end with the solution of the proposed mystery.
For example, in a police novel are physical evidence that can lead the detective in a certain direction. Do not accumulate the clues that you will give your reader in a single part of your novel. Share them intelligently throughout it. Not only will you put it a little harder, but working in that way will help you move the story forward. You can keep a complete record of the clues you have used, as well as the place and the way you have included them in the story.