Writing Style

They style of writing is narrative and descriptive. The author is telling the events that happen with a lot of interaction and dialogue. As well, the writer is able to be extremely descriptive and can paint a picture for the reader. For example when Finch is swimming in the Blue Hole a lake, he almost drowns himself and thinks “I dive deeper, lungs tight and burning. I feel a distant twinge of panic but I make my mind go quiet…”(Page 224). The audience is able to imagine and feel the same sensations when the author is describing the story. The writing style is in first person where it alternates between the two main character’s points of view. The reader is able to compare the two characters to see how similar and different they are when their views are constantly being alternated. Furthermore, It is very important that the author writes in first person because the readers are able to know everything that the characters are feeling and can see the dramatic development of character. Readers are also given underlying information when the author writes in first person. For example, Violet learns to deal with loss and begins to heal which one can see drastically from her thoughts. Additionally, If the writer did not speak in first person, readers would not understand the entire conflict. A quote which Theodore thinks in his mind is “I’ve learned the hard way that the best thing to do is say nothing about what you’re really thinking. If you say nothing, they’ll assume you’re thinking nothing, only what you let them see.” (Page 144) This is a great example which proves that Finch does not show signs of being depressed or suicidal as he hides his thoughts. The reader is able to understand his constant struggle and conflict with himself to stay alive (man vs. self) due to the first person point of view. I felt that the author did an excellent job capturing the thoughts of a young teen and was able to make connections with the readers. The mood and atmosphere which was often dark was well developed due to the setting of the story, plot of events and great attention to detail.

Violet's Point Of  View

Finch's Point Of  View