"Every Day" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the novel "Every Day" by David Levithan, the main character, A, wakes up each morning in a different body, living a different life. A's role is that of the protagonist, navigating the challenges and complexities of existing as a wandering soul.

Rhiannon serves as the love interest for A, with their relationship being a central focus of the story. Nathan acts as a friend to A, providing support and understanding. Justin, one of the host bodies that A inhabits, plays a significant role in A's journey. Lastly, Reverend Poole serves as the antagonist, representing the opposition to A's existence and their desire for stability.

Character Descriptions

A

A is a unique character who lacks a physical form and constantly switches bodies. A is genderless and has no defined physical appearance, allowing them to experience life from various perspectives. A is compassionate, adaptable, and seeks to live each day to the fullest despite the limitations of their existence.

Rhiannon

Rhiannon is a teenage girl who becomes entangled in A's extraordinary life. She is initially unaware of A's situation but is drawn to their genuine and caring nature. Rhiannon is described as kind-hearted, empathetic, and open-minded. She struggles with the challenges that arise from A's ever-changing presence but remains committed to their relationship.

Nathan

Nathan is one of the individuals whose body A inhabits. He becomes a close friend to A and provides unwavering support. Nathan is portrayed as understanding, accepting, and willing to help A navigate their unique circumstances.

Justin

Justin is Rhiannon's boyfriend, and one of the host bodies that A occupies. Unlike Nathan, Justin is less accepting of A's presence and the changes it brings to his relationship with Rhiannon. Justin's character highlights the conflicts and complexities that arise when A enters the lives of others.

Reverend Poole

Reverend Poole is presented as the antagonist in the story. He is a religious figure who believes that A is a demonic presence disrupting the natural order of life. Reverend Poole actively opposes A's existence and aims to remove them from the lives of those they encounter. His character adds a layer of tension and conflict to the narrative.

Character Traits

A

• Empathetic
• Adaptable
• Compassionate
• Open-minded
• Curious

Rhiannon

• Kind-hearted
• Empathetic
• Caring
• Supportive
• Struggles with uncertainty

Nathan

• Understanding
• Accepting
• Supportive
• Loyal
• Trustworthy

Justin

• Ambivalent
• Resistant
• Conflicted
• Defensive
• Unwilling to change

Reverend Poole

• Dogmatic
• Judgmental
• Rigid
• Zealous
• Antagonistic

Character Background

A

A's background remains a mystery throughout the novel. They have no control over where they wake up each day or the bodies they inhabit. A has adapted to their unique existence and has learned to live in the present moment. Their lack of a fixed identity allows them to empathize with and understand others on a deep level.

Rhiannon

Rhiannon comes from a seemingly ordinary background. She attends high school and has a stable family life. Her experiences with A push her to question the nature of love, identity, and the importance of physical appearance. Rhiannon's background provides a contrast to A's transient existence, highlighting the challenges they face in maintaining a meaningful relationship.

Nathan

Nathan is a high school student who, like Rhiannon, has a relatively stable background. He becomes a close friend of A's and supports them throughout their journey. Nathan's background showcases the importance of acceptance and friendship in A's life.

Justin

Justin is Rhiannon's boyfriend, whose background is briefly explored in the novel. He is initially portrayed as a typical teenage boy, struggling with his own insecurities and emotions. Justin's background sheds light on the complexities of relationships and the impact A's presence has on those around them.

Reverend Poole

Reverend Poole's background as a religious figure is explored in the novel. His beliefs and convictions drive his antagonistic behavior towards A. Reverend Poole's background adds a layer of religious and moral conflict to the story, revealing the clash between A's existence and societal norms.

Character Arcs

A

Throughout the novel, A experiences personal growth and transformation. Initially accepting their fate as a wandering soul, A's encounters with Rhiannon challenge their perspective on love and connection. A begins to question their role in the lives of others and strives to find a way to be with Rhiannon permanently. This journey leads A to confront their own identity and discover the power of love and sacrifice.

Rhiannon

Rhiannon's character undergoes significant development as she grapples with the complexities of A's existence. Initially uncertain and confused, Rhiannon learns to accept A for who they are and sees beyond physical appearances. Her arc involves overcoming societal expectations and embracing love in its purest form.

Nathan

Nathan's character serves as a source of support and understanding for A. His friendship with A helps them realize that they are not alone in their unique circumstances. Nathan's unwavering acceptance of A's presence contributes to their personal growth and self-acceptance.

Justin

Justin's character arc revolves around his resistance to change and his struggle to maintain his relationship with Rhiannon. His encounters with A force him to confront his own insecurities and question the nature of love. While initially hostile towards A, Justin's character arc offers a glimpse of growth and introspection.

Reverend Poole

Reverend Poole's character arc is one of staunch opposition to A's existence. He remains steadfast in his beliefs throughout the novel, representing the unyielding resistance to change and acceptance. Reverend Poole's arc serves as a source of conflict and tension, highlighting the clash between traditional values and the evolving understanding of love and identity.

Relationships

A and Rhiannon

The relationship between A and Rhiannon forms the emotional core of the story. Their connection transcends physical appearances and highlights the power of love in its purest form. The challenges they face in maintaining a relationship create tension, but their bond remains resilient and transformative.

A and Nathan

Nathan's friendship with A provides a sense of stability and understanding. He becomes a confidant for A, offering support and acceptance. Their relationship showcases the importance of friendship and the impact it can have on one's sense of self.

A and Justin

The relationship between A and Justin is one of conflict and tension. Justin's resistance to A's presence creates obstacles and challenges for both characters. Their interactions explore themes of acceptance, personal growth, and the complexities of relationships.

A and Reverend Poole

The relationship between A and Reverend Poole is one of opposition. Reverend Poole represents the forces in society that reject and fear the unknown. Their interactions highlight the clash between tradition and acceptance, adding another layer of conflict to the narrative.

In conclusion, "Every Day" by David Levithan presents a diverse cast of characters who navigate the complexities of love, identity, and acceptance. A's unique existence challenges societal norms and prompts a profound exploration of what it means to be human. Through their relationships with Rhiannon, Nathan, Justin, and Reverend Poole, A undergoes personal growth and transformation, highlighting the power of love and self-discovery.