Characters: Susan Caraway
Stargirl Caraway is undoubtedly the central focus of Stargirl, even though readers are never privy to her interior thoughts. Stargirl is the catalyst for all the changes that occur in the novel, within Leo, in the high-school community, and in the town of Mica as a whole. Stargirl’s principal characteristic is her utter uniqueness, which can never be fully explained by her circumstances. Leo does discover that Stargirl was homeschooled, which explains her unfamiliarity with high school trends, and that her mother is a costume designer who provides the outlandish fashions she wears. However, when Leo meets Stargirl’s parents, he finds them surprisingly ordinary; thus, the author suggests that Stargirl’s individuality is an intrinsic part of her identity, not merely a result of her environment.
Another equally important aspect of Stargirl’s character is her great capacity to care for others, while at the same time refusing to let others hurt her. Stargirl is so full of compassion that she cheers for the opposite team at basketball games, comforts a wounded player on the opposing team, and runs out because she cannot stand to hear the crowd booing the opposition. She is always looking for nice things to do for other people—leaving surprise presents, singing Happy Birthday, and so on. However, when other students shun Stargirl, she appears impervious to their comments. Even when another student slaps her, Stargirl responds by kissing the student on the cheek. As Leo says, he has never seen Stargirl look in a mirror, never heard her complain—all of her emotions “flowed outward,” as if she were egoless. In a way, Stargirl’s behavior seems so remarkable, so free from human flaws, that she functions more like a symbol than a character. While other characters change in response to Stargirl, Stargirl herself remains the same. Even when she briefly changes her outer appearance to appear more normal, she still gives a Stargirl-like speech to win an oratory contest, and she soon shucks off her new appearance. Stargirl—and Leo, and the rest of the community—realize that someone as individualistic, as pure, and as true to herself as Stargirl is can never truly change who she is.
Expert Q&A
What are some character traits of Stargirl Caraway?
Stargirl Caraway, the protagonist in Spinelli's novel, is characterized by her authenticity, friendliness, kindness, originality, and love for animals. She stands out for her unique dressing style and her childlike naivety. Stargirl also exhibits self-confidence, being undeterred by others' opinions, and a natural curiosity about the world around her. She embodies the concept of "turning the other cheek" to bullies, demonstrating her ability to love unconditionally.
What is the relationship between Stargirl and Mica High students? Did they eventually like her?
Initially, Stargirl is met with skepticism and uncertainty by Mica High students due to her eccentricity and uniqueness, which clash with the school's social norms. Although she briefly changes to fit in and gains some acceptance as "Susan," she ultimately realizes that her true self is not appreciated. Despite this, she chooses authenticity over popularity, remaining true to her creative and free-spirited nature, even at the cost of her relationship with Leo.
In Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli, did Stargirl ever desire popularity?
Stargirl never truly desired popularity in Jerry Spinelli's novel. She is depicted as a free spirit, indifferent to societal norms and unconcerned with others' opinions. Although she briefly attempts to fit in to please Leo, her boyfriend, this was not out of a personal desire for popularity. Her transformation into "Susan" is short-lived, as it does not bring her happiness or genuine acceptance, leading her to revert to her authentic self.
What three events in Stargirl show people starting to mistrust Stargirl?
Three events in "Stargirl" illustrate the growing mistrust towards her: first, her unique version of the Pledge of Allegiance, which appears on the school bulletin board with a potentially mocking note; second, her attendance at a stranger's funeral, leading to her being rudely asked to leave by the deceased's daughter; and third, anonymously gifting a bike to an injured boy, causing friction within his family. These instances highlight how her unconventional actions are misinterpreted by others.
Can you identify examples of Stargirl showing compassion?
Stargirl shows compassion in several key moments. As a cheerleader, she cares for an injured opposing player, demonstrating empathy beyond her team's allegiance. Her compassion is further evident when she responds to Hillari's slap with a kiss, choosing kindness over retaliation. Stargirl consistently acts contrary to societal norms, fostering a lasting impact of compassion at her school. Her actions highlight her dedication to empathy and understanding, influencing others even after her departure.
Identify examples of STEAL characterization in Stargirl.
Examples of STEAL characterization in Stargirl occur when Hillari speaks her mind about Stargirl and convinces everybody that Stargirl is a fraud. Other examples occur when readers are told that she was good looking enough to make the cheer squad.
In Stargirl, what is the title character's ambition for her future and why?
The title character's ambition is to become a "silver lunch truck driver," owning a fleet of trucks to deliver lunch to hardworking people. This aspiration reflects Stargirl's genuine desire to make others happy and her creative, unconventional thinking. Her goal is rooted in her large imagination and her unique ability to find unusual ways to bring joy to others, showcasing her quirky personality and heartfelt intentions.
What motivates Stargirl in the novel Stargirl?
Stargirl's primary motivation in the novel is love and altruism. She empathizes deeply with everyone and acts out of a genuine desire to spread happiness, as seen in her singing "Happy Birthday" to everyone and cheering for all teams. However, her attempt to change herself is motivated by her affection for Leo, whose opinion matters greatly to her. She transforms to connect with him and the student body.
Conflicts and their resolutions in Stargirl
In Stargirl, major conflicts include Stargirl's struggle with societal conformity and the tension between her and her classmates. Stargirl resolves the conflict by remaining true to herself, despite the backlash. Another resolution occurs when Leo, influenced by Stargirl, learns to appreciate individuality, highlighting the theme of acceptance.
As a character in Stargirl, how would you describe a specific event in a diary entry?
When pretending to be a character in Stargirl and writing a diary or letter about a specific event, choose a character (Leo, Kevin, Hillari, or Stargirl, for example) and imagine a scene from that person's perspective, trying to see with his or her eyes, hear with his or her ears, and think with his or her mind. Then write the scene from that perspective in a diary entry or letter using the first person.
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