Identity

A few books I've read this semester involve the theme of identity in fantasy literature.  In these particular books I've noticed that they all share a common message: while our identity is shaped by our circumstances, only we can determine who we really want to be.  I think this is a great message for anyone.  We all have a choice in how our circumstances will effect us and in what ways it will build/destroy us.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

Source: https://www.amazon.com/Graveyard-Book-Neil-Gaiman/dp/0060530944

Nobody Owens has a killer after him, a family that has been murdered, and is being raised by a graveyard of ghost under strict rules to not leave it.  Each of these circumstances shape and challenge him, but he determines that eventually he needs to live and experience a normal human life.  Arguable these experiences help prepare him for that choice.








The Wild Robot by Peter Brown

(Source: https://www.amazon.com/Wild-Robot-Peter-Brown/dp/0316381993)

Roz, a robot, is shipwrecked and must find a way to live in an environment not suited for a mechanical being.  She chooses to learn from and become a part of the animal community around her.  In the end, she almost becomes more than what she was built to be.











Crenshaw by Katherine Applegate

(Source: https://www.amazon.com/Crenshaw-Katherine-Applegate/dp/1250091667)

 Jackson is growing up and realizing the difficult circumstances of his family.  He begins to choose a life of lying and stealing to get by.  His imaginary friend reminds him that he can choose another way and be much happier, even when times are difficult.











The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

(Source: https://www.amazon.com/One-Only-Ivan-Katherine-Applegate/dp/0061992275)

 


Ivan, a gorilla, has only known life in a cage entertaining others.  When he promises look after another animal, he chooses to be and do more than have life in a small cage.  His circumstances and friends prepare him for what he has to do.  He chooses another life.







 Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

(Source: https://www.amazon.com/Tuck-Everlasting-Natalie-Babbit/dp/0312369816/)

Winnie is an overprotected child who longs to break from the boundaries she feels.  When her circumstances become too stifling, she leaves only to find herself kidnapped and in the middle of a fantastical event.  Winnie decides that she doesn't want to live forever, but she also wants to be daring in her own way by helping her newfound friends.