Characters
Who is the protagonist?
Melinda Sordino
Where is Melinda's sanctuary at home?
Her room, especially her bed / closet.
What is Melinda struggling to draw?
The tree. This represents her struggles, but soon to be growth. Often a direct reflection of Melinda's emotional state.
The feeling of being alone or not connected with others.
Alienation / Isolation / Loneliness
Melinda and her inability to speak out
Character vs Self
Melinda vs Melinda / Self
Name of the character who befriends Melinda
Heather
Where do Melinda and Heather first meet?
The auditorium / theater during freshman orientation.
What does Melinda keep removing from her safe spaces?
Mirrors. This represents her inability to face herself / her problems head on and honestly.
THe struggle to be yourself and finding who you are.
Identity / Self - Image
Rachelle blowing smoke in Melinda's face in the bathroom.
Character vs Character
Melinda vs Rachelle
Name of Melinda's favorite teacher
Mr. Freeman
Where does Melinda hide / escape at school?
The janitor's closet.
What does the janitor's closet represent for Melinda?
Melinda's need to isolate and separate herself from others at school. It is her safe spot.
The power and the consequences of not speaking up
Silence
Melinda getting a lecture from her parents about her failing grades.
Character vs Character
Melinda vs Her Parents
Who is Rachel / Rachelle?
Melinda's ex-best friend and now enemy.
Where does Melinda attend school?
Merryweather High School.
Why was the frog dissection so traumatic for Melinda?
It gave her feelings of helplessness and violation watching the frog be pinned down and unable to defend itself from being cut open.
The emotional impact of negative experiences and how it affects someone's life afterwards.
Trauma
Heather trying to fit in with the Martha's by wearing preppy clothes.
Character vs Society
Heather vs Society
Who is IT?
Andy Evans, a senior boy.
What happens to Melinda in biology class during the dissection?
She faints / passes out.
Why does she call Andy, "IT"?
He is a negative character and "IT" is a horror movie reference (allusion). This shows he will not be a good character for Melinda.
Melinda struggles with this and it is the cause for her isolation and emotional instability.
Communication
Melinda's seasonal depression hitting when Winter arrives.
Character vs Nature
Melinda vs Nature
Cold weather sparks depression.