Words have power. Sometimes, as in Lonnie’s case, that power can strengthen a person. In his growth as a character, Lonnie demonstrates the healing power of writing.

At first, he struggles to write, but he receives encouragement from his teacher, Ms. Marcus. Initially, Lonnie notes, “This whole book’s a poem ’cause Ms. Marcus says / write it down before it leaves your brain” (1). This prompt nudges him to write whatever comes to mind, a strategy often used by those experiencing intense emotions. Then, Ms. Marcus encourages him to review his writing:

line breaks help

us figure out

what matters to the poet

...

Every line

should count (4).

Although her directions help with the writing process, they also allow him to reflect on what’s most important. By reviewing his words, Lonnie can work through his grief. As a result, many of his poems are about his family. He recalls the fire: “That stupid fire couldn’t take all of them. / Nothing could do that. / Nothing” (19). Writing about that day and about his parents, Lonnie realizes that they aren’t gone, and the line breaks emphasize how strongly he feels their presence. Although Lonnie grieves, his writing helps him see that he isn’t alone, and it gives him an outlet for his emotions.