Guide Mentor

Character Role Analysis

Nola Bergen

Bart is obliged to visit Nola as part of his community service—but almost immediately, they develop a strong friendship. Nola's companionship is really helpful to Bart, who's pretty much friendless, and she helps him work through his grief for his dead dad: "Having her as a friend made me feel better about what had happened to me, about losing my dad, and the towers falling, and life in general" (11.23). Aw, yay.

Though Nola dies, she continues to help Bart from beyond the grave. In talking about Nola, Bart's finally able to open up to his mom about his dad's death. He's finally able to ask her if she misses him (13.45), and when he does, he feels a little better immediately.