A Boy Called Bat

Bat and Janie have a complex, stereotypical relationship for siblings. Sometimes, they get annoyed with each other or fight, and at times, they get along and support each other. Between their differing personalities, interests, roles, and communication styles, they often struggle to see eye-to-eye, but they both learn to consider the other’s perspective and find their own ways of expressing affection for each other.

Janie and Bat’s differing personalities, interests, roles, and communication styles make it difficult for them to find common ground. Janie is creative and outgoing. She loves to sing, and is excited to audition for her school’s rendition of Alice in Wonderland. On the other hand, Bat is reserved. He likes learning about animals, and devotes himself to learning about skunks and taking care of Thor. The siblings do not understand or enjoy each other’s interests. They also struggle to communicate clearly. When Janie expresses her preference for theater over animals, Bat calls her opinion “stupid.” Bat also offends Janie when he says she is “good at whining” when Janie decides to audition for the role of the Queen in the play (122).