In The Sky is Everywhere, before her sister died, Lennie thought of herself in terms of Bailey. She was Bailey's sister first, and her own person second. She even curbed her dreams because they were too similar to what Bailey wanted, holding herself back so Bailey could lead. Because of this, one of the biggest changes Lennie has to go through when Bailey dies is figuring out who she is—standing alone, independent of her sister. She makes a lot of mistakes, but by the end, we think she has a pretty decent idea of who she is.
Questions About Identity
- Who was Lennie before the story began? What are some of her most major changes by the end of the book? How do they come about?
- Do you think it is Lennie's family's fault that she thinks of herself as a companion, rather than a leader? Could the Walkers have done anything to change Lennie's mind about herself?
- What is the point in the novel when Lennie becomes leading lady material and starts taking charge of her own life? Defend your choice.
- In what ways (if any) does Joe help Lennie change?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Lennie's grief over her sister's death is crucial to her changing identity.
Lennie's love for Joe is crucial to her changing identity.