Name: Kyle Gainey
KG, what do you think the symbolism between mel and the tree is?
"well, i really believe this goes pretty deep, because the tree symbolizes that everyone and everything changes over time, and that things don't always go your way. and also, the tree is like her safe zone, because it's like a large thing to hide her from the real world"
Do you think her school is really isolating, or do you think it's just mel's attitude?
"well, i believe it is a bit of both, because if you put yourself out there, and not try, to make friends, then no one will notice you, and you won;t have any friends, but then also, there are those types of people in any type of school, that exist to pick on you, no matter how much you try and put yourself out there."
If Melinda's parents were more involved, do you think her relationship and feelings toward them would be different? Also, would her attitude in life be more positive?
"oh yeah. definitely, i mean depending on the subject, parents are there to help you. in Mel's case, if she just opened up a little bit, her attitude to herself and to her parents would positively change drastically. she should also not run away when her parents try to help her, and at least met them half way."
What do you think of the book so far? Even though it may be a bit dramatic it's still high school, so is it really that far from reality?
"what i think about the book, is that it;s a sad book, and i really don;t like the subject matter, but i like it because it shows great insight towards kids who are really having these struggles, and also not having nobody to talk to, and nowhere to go. and that's why, the book is almost realistic, it really makes you think about what you do when you see someone on the street walking alone all sad, it makes you wonder why they're that way."
