The story 'Within these walls' by Robyn Bavati
1ST BODY PARAGRAPH - Characters
Approx. 150 words
Part 1 - Character
Choose a character that proves your thesis (why is your novel worth reading?)
Part 2 – Describe that character
Who is that character? What’s unique about them? How are they represented in the novel? Are we supposed to like them? Hate them? Are they relatable?
Part 3 - Evidence
Use some direct quotes from the novel that show us more about the character. Try and pick quotes that show how the character is represented.
Part 4 – The Character’s literary value
Does this character prove that the novel is valuable to Year 7s? Why/Why not?
Part 1
The character of Sol, Miri's cousin, is a great example of why this novel is worth reading: he's realistic and relatable and embodies many positive qualities.
Part 2
When we first meet Sol, he's depicted as a typical boy; he enjoys riding his bicycle, being outdoors and wants more than anything to be an explorer or inventor. He's instantly relatable to young people because he's just so normal. However, as life is turned upside down by the invasion of the Nazis, we see Sol grow as a person. He risks his life to deliver papers for the Jewish underground, and becomes a mentor for Miri.
Part 3
For example, after they reunite in the ghetto, he shows Miri "how to stay off the streets, how to move around the ghetto ... over rooftops ... and how to find the best hiding places." (p.179). He squeezes Miri's hand to reassure her as she navigates a dangerous rooftop.
Part 4
Sol shows us what we are capable of when we are tested: he's wily, resilient and protective of Miri - all characteristics that are admirable and worth seeing portrayed in literature.
In addition, Sol's loyalty to his family and community is also apparent throughout the novel. He risks his own safety to help the resistance and support his loved ones. As Miri reflects, "I knew how much Sol had done for all of us. He hadn't just brought us food and messages. He'd become our eyes and ears, and kept us all alive." (p. 187).
These qualities make Sol a positive role model for young readers, and his resilience in the face of extreme adversity is inspiring. Overall, Sol's character is a shining example of why 'Within these walls' is worth reading for Year 7s. The novel teaches the importance of empathy, resilience, and the power of hope, and Sol's character embodies these values in a relatable and impactful way.