Student Question
In Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy, why did Willis and Turner become friends?
Quick answer:
Willis and Turner become friends after a series of events that showcase Turner's resilience and skills. Initially, Turner is humiliated in softball and swimming, but he later demonstrates his capabilities by intentionally striking out during a crucial softball game. This act reveals his confidence and courage, earning Willis's respect. Turner’s ability to hit any pitch and his gutsy choice to strike out intentionally lead to the development of their friendship.
At the beginning of Lizzie Bright and the Buckminster Boy, Willis and Turner are not friends. When Willis invites Turner to play softball, Willis is not used to how the ball is pitched. He is simply humiliated by his attempts to hit a ball which he has no idea how to hit.
Even after his humiliation at softball, Tuner accepts an invitation to go swimming. Given that the only way to swim is to jump off of forty foot cliffs, Tuner refuses and is again rejected and scrutinized.
Later in the text, Willis again attempts to play softball (in the last game of the season. As Willis begins to throw pitches, Turner is able to hit all of the balls this time (even though they go foul). As the last pitch to Turner is thrown over the plate, Turner allows the ball to pass (without swinging and strikes out). This stand showed Willis two things: that Turner could hit any of the pitches he wanted and that Turner had guts. After this, Willis had a great respect for him. Their friendship was inevitable.
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