Student Question
Analyze the character Novalee Nation in Where the Heart Is by Billie Letts.
Quick answer:
Novalee Nation is a catalyst for change, embodying themes of self-reliance and the American Dream. Initially an innocent young woman abandoned by her boyfriend, she is left without money, food, or shelter. Novalee's decision to live in Walmart until her baby's birth marks the beginning of her transformative journey. Naming her daughter Americus, she resolves to overcome poverty and neglect, ultimately succeeding against stereotypes and becoming a symbol of self-reliance and determination.
You can analyze the character of Novalee by revealing her thoughts and actions throughout the novel and by eventually pinpointing what her function is within Where the Heart Is . Quite simply, Novalee is the catalyst that makes change happen in her life. Further, the reader learns about self-reliance and the American Dream from Novalee. The main character of the story begins as an innocent young woman, abandoned by her boyfriend. Without money, food or shelter, Novalee decides to live at the Walmart until the baby is born, when she is taken to a hospital. In order to begin her life of success, Novalee names her baby girl “Americus Nation” and hopes to give her a better life. Novalee decides that this is the precise time to make positive choices for herself and her child in order to support them both. Novalee is presented with one obstacle after another, but...
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she succeeds in her quest. This breaks all sorts of stereotypes, considering Novalee’s past of poverty, neglect, and lack of education. Due to her success at becoming a responsible, kind, and caring adult, Novalee becomes a symbol of self-reliance in America.