"The Wish List" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

In the book "The Wish List" by Eoin Colfer, there are several key characters that drive the plot forward. The two main protagonists are Meg Finn and Lowrie McCall, who embark on a journey after their untimely deaths. The main antagonist is Belch Brennan, a dangerous criminal who is also deceased. Another significant character is The Angel of Death, who serves as a guiding figure for Meg and Lowrie.

Character Descriptions

Meg Finn

Meg Finn is a fifteen-year-old girl who finds herself in a difficult situation after her involvement in a botched robbery. She is described as resourceful and determined, with a strong moral compass. Meg has auburn hair and is often seen wearing practical clothing. She possesses a quick wit and a sense of humor, which helps her navigate the challenges she faces in the afterlife.

Lowrie McCall

Lowrie McCall is a fourteen-year-old boy who becomes Meg's companion in the afterlife. He is described as brave and loyal, with a mischievous streak. Lowrie has messy brown hair and a perpetual smirk on his face. Despite his tough exterior, he cares deeply for Meg and is willing to do whatever it takes to help her.

Belch Brennan

Belch Brennan is the main antagonist of the story. He is a ruthless criminal who was responsible for Meg's death. Belch is described as physically imposing, with a shaved head and a permanent scowl. He is cunning and manipulative, always one step ahead of Meg and Lowrie. Belch's presence adds a sense of danger and urgency to the plot.

The Angel of Death

The Angel of Death is a mysterious character who appears to Meg and Lowrie after their deaths. He takes the form of a shadowy figure and serves as a mentor and guide for the protagonists. The Angel of Death is wise and enigmatic, offering cryptic advice and pushing Meg and Lowrie to confront their past mistakes.

Character Traits

Meg Finn

• Resourceful
• Determined
• Morally upright
• Quick-witted
• Sense of humor

Lowrie McCall

• Brave
• Loyal
• Mischievous
• Protective of Meg
• Smirking

Belch Brennan

• Ruthless
• Manipulative
• Physically imposing
• Cunning
• Always one step ahead

The Angel of Death

• Mysterious
• Wise
• Enigmatic
• Mentor figure
• Shadowy presence

Character Background

Meg Finn

Before her death, Meg lived a challenging life. She grew up in a low-income neighborhood and had to fend for herself. Meg was drawn into a life of crime due to her circumstances but always dreamed of a better future. Her involvement in the robbery that led to her death was a turning point in her life.

Lowrie McCall

Lowrie came from a troubled family and often found himself on the wrong side of the law. Despite his tough exterior, he had a kind heart and a desire to protect those he cared about. Lowrie's loyalty to Meg stems from his own experiences of being let down by others.

Belch Brennan

Belch Brennan was a notorious criminal who terrorized the city before his death. He was known for his violent tendencies and had a reputation for being ruthless. Belch's backstory is not extensively explored in the book, but it is clear that he was a dangerous individual.

The Angel of Death

The Angel of Death is a supernatural being whose purpose is to guide souls to the afterlife. He has a deep understanding of human nature and the consequences of one's actions. The Angel of Death's background is largely left to the reader's interpretation, adding to his mysterious nature.

Character Arcs

Meg Finn

Meg's character arc revolves around redemption and growth. In the beginning, she is a young girl caught up in a life of crime. However, after her death, she is given a chance to make amends for her past actions. Meg learns important lessons about the value of life and the consequences of her choices. By the end of the story, she has transformed into a more compassionate and selfless person.

Lowrie McCall

Lowrie's character arc is closely intertwined with Meg's. Initially, he is portrayed as a troublemaker with a rebellious streak. However, as he accompanies Meg on their journey, he begins to develop a sense of responsibility and a deeper understanding of the consequences of his actions. Lowrie's loyalty to Meg drives him to make difficult choices and ultimately helps him grow as a person.

Belch Brennan

Belch Brennan's character arc is centered around his pursuit of power and control. Throughout the story, he is determined to outsmart Meg and Lowrie, always staying one step ahead. However, his arrogance and disregard for others ultimately lead to his downfall. Belch's character arc serves as a cautionary tale about the destructive nature of greed and violence.

The Angel of Death

The Angel of Death's character arc is more subtle but still significant. As a mentor figure, he guides Meg and Lowrie through their journey in the afterlife. The Angel of Death's guidance helps the protagonists confront their past mistakes and find redemption. His role in the story emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and personal growth.

Relationships

Meg Finn and Lowrie McCall

Meg and Lowrie's relationship is at the heart of the story. They start off as unlikely companions but quickly develop a deep bond based on trust and loyalty. Meg's determination to make amends inspires Lowrie to change his own ways. Their friendship is tested throughout their journey, but they always come through for each other.

Meg Finn and Belch Brennan

Meg and Belch have a complex and adversarial relationship. Belch is responsible for Meg's death and is constantly trying to thwart her and Lowrie's progress. Meg's resilience and refusal to give up become a source of frustration for Belch. Their encounters are tense and filled with danger, adding to the suspense of the story.

Meg Finn and The Angel of Death

Meg's relationship with The Angel of Death is one of guidance and mentorship. The Angel of Death challenges Meg to confront her past actions and make amends. His cryptic advice pushes Meg to reflect on her choices and grow as a person. Despite his mysterious nature, The Angel of Death genuinely cares about Meg's journey to redemption.

Conclusion

"The Wish List" by Eoin Colfer features a diverse cast of characters who drive the narrative forward. Meg Finn and Lowrie McCall, the main protagonists, undergo significant character arcs as they navigate the challenges of the afterlife. Belch Brennan serves as a formidable antagonist, while The Angel of Death guides the protagonists towards redemption. The relationships between these characters add depth and complexity to the story, making "The Wish List" a compelling read.