The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

by Avi, Edward Irving Wortis

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Student Question

What are three reasons Zachariah would make a good friend for Charlotte?

Quick answer:

Zachariah would make a good friend for Charlotte because he recognizes their shared status as outsiders on the ship—Charlotte as the only girl and himself as the only black man—creating a potential bond. He also values the importance of having a "final friend" for support and protection during the voyage, demonstrating his loyalty and care by offering Charlotte a dirk for her safety. His persistence in seeking friendship shows his genuine interest in her well-being.

Expert Answers

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Zachariah tries very hard to befriend Charlotte at the beginning of the voyage, saying, “I can assure you, Zachariah can be a fine friend.” He feels they have something in common—their differences.

“Miss Doyle is so young! I am so old! Surely there is something similar in that. And you, the sole girl, and I, the one black, are special on this ship. In short, we begin with two things in common, enough to begin a friendship.”

Since Charlotte is the youngest and Zachariah is the oldest, he feels they should be friends. He also thinks the distinction of being the only girl and the only black man will create a bond.

Charlotte disagrees and states that she doesn’t need a friend. However, Zachariah is undeterred and states that, “One always needs a final friend.” He explains that a final friend is the companion who sews a hammock and wraps it around his friend’s body when the sailor is put to rest at sea. So, Zachariah is basically saying that he would be a good friend to have in case she dies on the voyage.

Charlotte is disgusted by this idea and tries to leave. It is at this point that Zachariah offers her the dirk for protection.

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