Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

The Librarian

This nice woman helps Bud find his way when he is lost and feeds him. When Bud is seeking the other nice librarian, Miss Hill, and the current one tells him she is gone, he feels pretty defeated, but this guide helps buck up Bud's spirits by giving him a book on a topic he enjoys and teaching him how to use maps to calculate how to get where he wants to go. She then gives Bud her leftover sandwich, which tides him over so he doesn't feel starving.

Lefty Lewis

Who ever heard of a mentor that is such a big tease? Well, even though Bud may not always catch on to Lefty's jokes, we sure do, and we love him for it. Lefty not only rescues Bud from a dangerous situation that could have turned out really, really badly, he also lightens the mood with his jokes, gives Bud new clothes, a great meal, a bed to sleep in, and a ride all the way to Grand Rapids.

Most importantly, though, Lefty shows Bud how to be part of a loving family in a stable home, which is what Bud is seeking. Lefty and company give Bud a vision of happiness that he eventually finds in Calloway's band at the Sweet Pea.

Deza Malone and the Hoovervillagers

Deza is sort of like Yoda, an unexpectedly short, wise little creature—except Deza is cute (sorry, Yoda). Bud learns some good lessons about the importance of family from Deza and from the entire shanty town. He witnesses a solid community of people (a great big family) who look out for each other and pitch in to help each other. Deza tells Bud: "… my daddy says families are the most important thing there is" (8.133), and that makes Bud reconsider going to California. It also helps him decide to look for his dad.