Character Analysis
Melba Pattillo BealsMelba is a brave fourteen-year-old girl. Her character traits help her survive even though insults are constantly being shouted at her. She has a courageous spirit and tries not to care what others do or say to her. One of the things that truly defines her character is that when people are being mean to her at school, she says, "Thank you," and smiles. Other people in this situation might get angry or fight back, but Melba thinks of a way to not give the bully her power. All of the conflicts that she faces make her a stronger person. She believes in light at the end of the dark tunnel, which leads her to accomplish what she has hoped for all along--freedom and equality.
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Grandma India |
Grandma India, Melba's grandmother, helps Melba through her tough year at Central High. Her character traits prove to be extremely valuable as well. Melba is ready to give up many times, but Grandma India tells her how much she matters to the world and how she is meant to be making a change for black people. Even when Melba cannot talk to anyone else or go anywhere in public without being harassed, Grandma India is there for her and guides her through her struggles.
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Link |
Link is a white boy who attends Central High School. He is Melba's friend. In the middle of the book when Melba is about to get hurt by Link's friends, he gives her his car so that she can drive away and get out of danger. Also, he shows strong character because he is willing to give her information at school about when his friends are planning to hurt her so that she can stay safe from them. Link is another person who supports Melba through her year at Central.
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