Content Warning: This section discusses the stereotypical portrayal of a disfigured person.

At the beginning of the novel, Charlie represents innocence. She is very much a child, scared and wholly dependent upon Andy. Charlie is characterized by fear and feels overwhelming guilt at having to use her pyrokinetic ability, which her parents have stigmatized. In order to protect Charlie from harming herself, Andy and Vicky felt it necessary to imbue a deep sense of shame and guilt around using her ability. This affects Charlie throughout the novel. It compromises the use of her ability and isolates her in a self-enclosed world.

As she comes of age, Charlie moves from a state of fear and innocence to being a self-aware and independent youth who is capable of harnessing her power and deciding her own course of action. She gains control of her pyrokinetic abilities, the symbol of her burgeoning maturity and self-awareness.

Charlie’s innocence contrasts with her destructive capabilities. King uses these two polar-opposite elements to portray a highly conflicted character, one who is unable to be at home in the world. Charlie feels deeply and instinctually acts moralistically, such as when she hears the misogynistic thoughts of Eddie Delgardo and sets his shoes on

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