Character Clues

Character Analysis

Physical Appearances

If we had a dollar for every time we were told someone's race in the book, we'd be millionaires by the end. Since the book is about racism, the author makes sure to note each person's skin color before we get to know him/her. This is one way of making sure we're up to speed about who is on which side of the debate. It's also a way for us to characterize every person. For example, L.J. is white and still fights against the White Raiders, which shows that he's an upstanding guy with an extra side of principles. In a book about racism, it only makes sense that physical appearances matter.

Direct Characterization

Did you notice how Ben is always telling us what people are like? Take Jonah. When he first meets the guy, he says, "I decided that Jonah Curtis was not only a smart man but a wise one. Jonah clearly had intelligence to spare, tempered with humor and a bit of easygoing cynicism" (95.11). Hmm…that's what we call direct characterization. We don't have to figure out how people behave or scratch our heads about who's who because Ben call 'em like he sees 'em time and again. Hey, it sure makes our job easier.